Clos Solène : Fleur de Solène 2016

Characteristics and tasting tips for Fleur de Solène 2016 from Clos Solène

Tasting

Appearance

The wine displays a deep red hue with purple highlights.

Nose

The nose reveals intense aromas of raspberries and blackberries, complemented by delicate mineral notes. This minerality brings an elegant freshness that harmoniously contrasts with the opulence of red and black fruit.

Palate

On the palate, Fleur de Solène 2016 charms with its remarkably silky texture and warm tannins. The structure favors finesse and balance over power. Well-defined black-fruit flavors are joined by notes of dark chocolate and complex licorice. The impressive finish lingers at length, reflecting fine concentration and excellent balance between tannin, fruit, and acidity.

Food and wine pairings

This wine pairs elegantly with a herb-crusted roast lamb, grilled or roasted red meats, as well as rich sauced dishes such as beef bourguignon or a Provençal daube. It also pairs beautifully with Mediterranean lamb preparations with black olives and sun-dried tomatoes, as well as blue cheeses and hard cheeses.

Serving and cellaring

It is recommended to serve Fleur de Solène 2016 between 14°C and 15.5°C. Decanting for four to five hours before tasting will allow the wine to fully reveal its complex aromatic bouquet.

An elegant Paso Robles blend by Clos Solène

The estate

Founded in 2007 by Guillaume and Solène Fabre, Clos Solène is a family estate based in Paso Robles, California. Guillaume, from a line of Languedoc-Roussillon winegrowers and a graduate in oenology and viticulture, chose to settle in California after an internship at L'Aventure Winery. In January 2017, the couple acquired the Pipestone estate in the Willow Creek District, spanning 28 acres. Today, Guillaume and Solène Fabre run this property together, prioritizing quality over quantity and producing wines inspired by French Rhône and Bordeaux traditions while expressing the authenticity of California’s terroir.

The vineyard

Fleur de Solène 2016 comes from carefully selected vineyards on the western slope of Paso Robles, notably in the Willow Creek District. This area benefits from a strong oceanic influence, located just nineteen kilometers from the Pacific. The soils are composed mainly of limestone and shale, derived from ancient marine deposits of the Monterey Formation. The climate is marked by extreme diurnal temperature swings that can reach twenty-eight degrees Celsius, encouraging gradual ripening of the grapes while preserving their natural acidity.

The vintage

The 2016 vintage stands out for its balance and elegance, reflecting favorable growing conditions that yielded grapes of optimal ripeness and fine concentration.

Winemaking and aging

The grapes for Fleur de Solène 2016 are hand-harvested to ensure optimal quality. Fermentation takes place entirely in barrel before the juice is pressed, a technique that adds depth and aromatic complexity to the wine. This method, inspired by French traditions and adapted to California fruit, creates a sophisticated texture and remarkable finesse.

Grape varieties

Syrah (43%)
Grenache (35%)
Cabernet Sauvignon (22%)