Clos Solène : Fleur de Solène 2017

Tasting characteristics and advice for Fleur de Solène 2017 from Clos Solène

Tasting

Color
The color reveals a medium to deep ruby hue with lovely purple highlights.

Nose
The nose first shows an intense, concentrated character, with distinct notes of dark fruit and dried cherries. With continued aeration, aromas of wild blueberries emerge, joined by powerful scents of blackcurrant and dark chocolate. As it opens further, the bouquet evolves toward notes of peppery spices, coffee bean and smoky tobacco.

Palate
On the palate, this wine charms with its smooth, harmonious texture, revealing a beautiful balance of tension and richness. The palate unfolds flavors of roasted dates, milk chocolate, coffee grounds and blackberry compote. A distinct minerality maintains balance and structure. Refined, well-balanced tannins build gradually through a long, impressive finish, where floral and spicy notes return with emphasis.

Food and wine pairings

This Fleur de Solène 2017 pairs perfectly with beef bourguignon, a herb-roasted leg of lamb, or an oxtail stew. It also goes very well with aged hard cheeses such as well-matured Comté, as well as fine cured meats with smoky or spicy flavors.

Serving and cellaring

To fully appreciate Fleur de Solène 2017, it is recommended to serve it at a temperature between 14 and 15°C. Decanting for 4 to 5 hours before serving will allow the wine to reveal its full aromatic complexity. This wine can be enjoyed now but will continue to evolve through around 2032.

An outstanding Rhône–Bordeaux blend from Paso Robles, California

The estate

Founded in 2007 by Guillaume and Solène Fabre, Clos Solène is a family estate located in the Willow Creek District of Paso Robles, California. Guillaume, a sixth-generation French winegrower, left Languedoc-Roussillon to create this 28-acre property with his wife Solène. Clos Solène stands out for its authentic fusion of French winemaking traditions and Californian innovation, embodying a true Franco-Californian love story in which each wine bears the mark of the family’s passion.

The vineyard

The grapes for Fleur de Solène 2017 come mainly from the western side of Paso Robles, in the Willow Creek District. This area benefits from a significant marine influence from the Pacific Ocean, creating a unique climate with cool nights, foggy mornings and warm days. The region has the largest day-to-night temperature swing of any California winegrowing area, reaching up to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The soils are composed of clay, silt, limestone, calcareous rocks and shell deposits, offering a diversity that allows each variety to fully express itself.

The vintage

The year 2017 produced an exceptionally balanced vintage in Paso Robles. Climate conditions provided enough warmth to allow full ripening of the grapes, while preserving cool, windy conditions that maintained natural acidity. This combination gave rise to a rich, concentrated California wine, without excessive alcohol or imbalance, with a delicate, fruit-driven quality.

Vinification and aging

The grapes for Fleur de Solène 2017 were vinified separately by vineyard in different vessels of varying sizes. After 14 months of aging, the blend was assembled, followed by an additional 2 months before bottling, for a total of 16 months. The wine saw 30% new oak, a balance that preserves fruit expression while adding complexity and structure.

Grape varieties

Syrah (40%)
Cabernet sauvignon (34%)
Grenache (26%)