Le Clementin du Ch. Pape Blanc 2016 (1x75cl)

Le Clementin du Ch. Pape Blanc 2016 represents the distinguished second wine from the esteemed Château Pape Blanc, a testament to the estate's commitment to quality across its portfolio. Hailing from the classic Bordeaux terroir, this white blend typically draws from parcels dedicated to Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, reflecting the region's capacity for producing vibrant, age-worthy dry whites. The 2016 vintage in Bordeaux was generally favourable, yielding wines with excellent balance and aromatic purity.

Crafted with meticulous attention, the vinification process for Le Clementin often involves a careful selection of fruit, followed by fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel, with a portion potentially undergoing maturation in neutral or lightly toasted French oak barrels to impart subtle texture and complexity without overshadowing the primary fruit character. This approach ensures the wine is approachable in its youth while retaining the structural integrity for short-to-medium term cellaring.

Tasting notes

The bouquet is expressive, revealing layers of ripe citrus, particularly grapefruit and lemon zest, intertwined with delicate notes of white peach, a hint of freshly cut grass, and a subtle underlying minerality. On the palate, it is crisp and invigorating, with a precise acidity that frames a core of vibrant fruit. Flavours of green apple, passionfruit, and a touch of honeyed richness from the Sémillon component are evident. The texture is refined, leading to a persistent, clean finish marked by a saline minerality and a lingering citrus zest. Medium-bodied with excellent balance and a refreshing length.