Le Clementin du Château Pape Clément serves as the distinguished second wine of this historic Grand Cru Classé de Graves estate, nestled within the prestigious Pessac-Léognan appellation. It is meticulously crafted from younger vines or specific parcels that, while exceptional, do not meet the exacting standards for the Grand Vin, offering an earlier accessible yet authentic expression of the estate's profound terroir.
The 2014 vintage in Bordeaux was characterised by a challenging spring and summer, culminating in a remarkably dry and sunny September and October. This extended period of fine weather proved particularly beneficial for the late-ripening Cabernet Sauvignon, allowing for optimal phenolic ripeness and concentration. Consequently, wines from this vintage exhibit a desirable balance of freshness, structural integrity, and aromatic precision.
Reflecting the gravelly soils of Pessac-Leognan, Le Clementin 2014 showcases the appellation's typicity with its elegant fruit profile and underlying minerality. The winemaking philosophy mirrors that of the Grand Vin, employing careful parcel selection, precise fermentation protocols, and a judicious oak regime, typically involving a proportion of new French oak for maturation. This ensures a sophisticated profile, balancing vibrant fruit with refined tannins and a capacity for graceful development over several years.
Tasting notes
The 2014 Le Clementin du Château Pape Clément presents a deep ruby core with evolving garnet reflections, indicative of its decade of maturation. The aromatic profile is complex and inviting, revealing classic Pessac-Léognan characteristics: ripe blackcurrant and red plum fruit are elegantly interwoven with nuanced notes of cedar, graphite, and a delicate hint of tobacco leaf. A subtle earthy minerality and a touch of smoky complexity further enhance the bouquet.
On the palate, this wine is medium-bodied and impeccably structured, supported by fine-grained, polished tannins that provide a sophisticated framework. The fruit expression remains remarkably vibrant, echoing the dark berry and plum notes from the nose, complemented by savoury undertones and a persistent, refreshing acidity. The finish is long, refined, and harmonious, showcasing the wine's excellent balance and its graceful evolution. This is a sophisticated second wine, offering both immediate drinking pleasure and further potential for development.