2009 Pape Clement
By Chateau Pape Clement
2009 Pape Clement by Chateau Pape Clement, Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux
The 2009 vintage in Bordeaux stands as a towering testament to the region's potential for crafting wines of profound depth and longevity. Among these vinous giants, the 2009 Pape Clement from Chateau Pape Clement in Pessac-Leognan is a compelling narrative unto itself. This particular year harnesses a confluence of optimal conditions, resulting in a wine that beguiles with complexity and vibrancy.
Climatic Splendour and Vinous Virtuosity
The growing season of 2009 was marked by an ideal blend of warm sunshine and cool nights, laying the foundation for wines with impeccable structure and balance. The terroir of Pessac-Leognan, a revered enclave within Bordeaux, presents an alluring stage for the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blend of this stature to express itself.
A Vintage to Remember
Upon sampling, the 2009 Pape Clement unveils a tapestry woven with opulent fruit; blackcurrant and plums dance alongside subtler undertones of cigar box and graphite, all cradled by elegantly integrated oak. The tannins are assertive yet polished, foretelling a wine that will gracefully evolve further. The finish is remarkably lengthy, echoing with notes of spice and dark chocolate, a hallmark of this exemplary vintage.
As one contemplates this majestic creation from Chateau Pape Clement, it's evident that the 2009 Pape Clement stands as one of the luminaries within an investor's portfolio. Its synthesis of climatic fortune and deft winemaking guarantees its status as a wine that will not only endure but thrive with time.
For connoisseurs and investors alike, the 2009 vintage from Bordeaux remains emblematic of what can be achieved when nature conspires with human artistry. Among these, the 2009 Pape Clement from Chateau Pape Clement offers a luxuriant narrative — one etched in vinous history, ripe for continued appreciation.
Market price (CAD)
$3,095.60
12x75cl
Highest score
98
POP score
103.33
Scores and tasting notes
Wonderful aromas of plums and blueberries and flowers. Full-bodied with plums, stones, hazelnuts and milk chocolate, and a long, long finish. Marvelous. Best ever. Try in 2017.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, July 31st 2012
Although the 2009 Pape Clement may not be as sublime as the 2005 or 2000, but it is very close to those two efforts, and it will be fascinating to compare them (as well as the 2008 and 2010) over the following three decades. A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc with a modest 13.5% alcohol, the 2009 reveals considerable structure and tannin along with tell-tale notes of burning embers, scorched earth, graphite, blueberries, blackberries and toasty vanillin, and a full-bodied mouthfeel. This rich, full offering is surprisingly backward. This cuvee should drink well in 5-6 years as one rarely has to wait a decade or more to enjoy Pape Clement. It should age for three decades or more. This 13th century vineyard situated in the suburbs of Pessac is owned by one of Bordeaux’s most interesting visionaries, Bernard Magrez. He has done a remarkable job in turning around this once moribund property that made a bevy of undrinkable wines into one of the superstars of Bordeaux.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #199
Served blind at the Southwold 2009 tasting. The Pape-Clement has a comparatively feminine nose with lifted macerated dark cherries, cassis, briary and a touch of vanilla from the oak. It has lovely delineation and purity. The palate is medium-bodied with ripe, rounded tannins. This is a “big” wine, but it manages to retain fine balance and the lingering sweet finish is very convincing. It needs several years in the cellar, but it has so much potential. Tasted January 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2013