Château La Fleur-Pétrus 1975

Historical context and special features

1975 was one of the most controversial vintages in Bordeaux in the 20th century. An extremely hot summer was followed by rainfall at harvest time, which presented the winegrowers with major challenges. Château La Fleur-Pétrus nevertheless succeeded in producing a remarkable wine that masterfully overcame the adverse conditions.

Terroir and location

Château La Fleur-Pétrus is located on the central plateau of Pomerol, directly between its legendary neighbours Pétrus (to the north) and Château Lafleur (to the south). The 10-hectare domain benefits from:

• Soil composition: Deep gravel banks over blue clay (similar to Pétrus)

• Microclimate: Slight elevation with optimal drainage

• Grape varieties: 90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc

Vintage analysis 1975

Weather pattern:

• Spring: Cool and wet, delayed bud break

• Summer: Extremely hot and dry (July: 35°C+)

• September: Ideal conditions

• October: Problematic rainfall during the harvest

Harvest decisions:

• Selective hand-picking in several passes

• Strictest grape selection at the sorting table

• End of harvest: 2 October 1975 (shortly before the main rains)

Vinification and ageing

Technical parameters:

• Yield: 32 hl/ha (very low for the time)

• Fermentation: 21 days in concrete vats

• Ageing: 18 months in 40% new oak barrels

• Alcohol: 12.5%

• Total acidity: 5.6 g/l

• Production: ~12,000 bottles

Sensory development

Early years (1977-1985):
Robust, tannic with aromas of dark berries and cedar wood. Still very closed.

Maturation phase (1986-2000):
Development of tobacco, leather and truffle flavours. The tannins began to soften.

Current state (2024):

• Colour: Medium garnet red with an orange rim

• Nose: Complex bouquet with notes of dried plums, tobacco leaves, fine leather and a subtle mineral underlay

• Palate: Balanced structure, silky tannins, flavours of candied cherries, sous-bois and a slight spiciness

• Finish: Medium length (25-30 seconds) with an elegant rounding off

Reviews and ratings

Robert Parker (1994):
"Surprisingly lively for a 1975. Shows classic Pomerol elegance with notes of truffle and dried herbs. 90 points."

Michael Broadbent:
"Survived the difficult conditions of the vintage well. Shows charm and complexity. 4 stars."

Latest tasting (Jancis Robinson 2020):
"Moves at its peak but should be consumed soon. Elegant with lovely tertiary complexity."

Market analysis

Price development:

• Original price: 180 francs (approx. € 27)

• 2024: 400€+

Storage and provenance

Optimal conditions:

• Ideal storage temperature: 12-13°C

• Humidity: 70-75%

• Recommended light conditions: Absolute darkness

Provenance specifics:

• Capsule: Pewter with "La Fleur-Pétrus" embossing

• Label: Characteristic brown paper of the 1970s

• Bottle: Typical Bordeaux shape

Drinking recommendations

Current drinking window:

• Optimal: 2020-2028

• Peak maturity: Now

• Decaying phase: From 2025

Decanting recommendation:

• 2-3 hours for intact bottles

• Immediate enjoyment for lighter examples

• Serving temperature: 16°C

Food pairing:

• Poultry with morels

• Tender game dishes

• Matured mountain cheese

Comparison with other vintages

1975 vs. 1971:

• 1971: More elegant, accessible earlier

• 1975: More structured, longer-lasting

1975 vs. 1978:

• 1978: More fruity, softer

• 1975: More classic, richer in tannins

Future prospects

Investment potential:

• Estimated appreciation: 3-5% p.a.

• Rarity factor: High (only 12,000 bottles)

• Demand: Stable among collectors of classic vintages

Development potential:

• The wine has reached its plateau

• Recommended: Consumption within the next 3-5 years

• Particularly valuable: Bottles with perfect provenance

The 1975 Château La Fleur-Pétrus represents a wine that has proven its provenance and class despite difficult vintage conditions. It exemplifies the winemaking skills of the Moueix family and the ability to vinify wines of strong character even in challenging years. For lovers of classic Pomerols, it offers an authentic flavour experience of a bygone era.