1997 Pape Clement
By Chateau Pape Clement
1997 Pape Clement from Chateau Pape Clement, Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux
The 1997 offering from the esteemed Chateau Pape Clement stands as a testament to the resilience and finesse that typify the Pessac-Leognan enclave. This vintage emerged from a year fraught with climatic vagaries, yet the resulting wine showcases a prowess in enological adaptation and meticulous vineyard stewardship.
A Study in Elegance Amidst Adversity
The growing season of 1997 presented its plethora of challenges, with uneven weather patterns casting a prelude of trepidation amongst vintners in Bordeaux. However, the tenacity of Chateau Pape Clement's team has borne a harmonious blend that rises above the hurdles bestowed by nature. Imbued with an intricate balance, the 1997 Pape Clement evokes a spirit of Old World refinement paired with defiant complexity.
Harmony in the Glass: A Confluence of Terroir and Talent
Indeed, one could argue it is in such challenging years that the deft hand of experienced winemaking is most evident. Here, the grape varietal characteristics blend seamlessly with terracotta-like minerality, spiced plum, and ebbing hints of tobacco leaf. Astute enthusiasts and collectors acknowledge this vintage as demonstrating both longevity and near-term approachability—a cherished characteristic for discerning palates.
A retrospective sip reveals not just an echo of the past but also a promissory note; this wine is evolving admirably, evidencing poise and depth which knits together its components in an intricate latticework unbefitting of a so-called 'difficult' year. The acute investor recognises the 1997 Pape Clement as not only a triumph over adversity but also as a smart addition to an oenophile's cache.
In fine, a contemplative evaluation yields much admiration for this vintage's odyssey from grape to glass—a journey marked by industrious hands and intuitive foresight under the unpredictable canopy of Bordeaux skies. Holding gracefully at its plateau, the 1997 Pape Clement is ready to be savoured or held in repose by those calculative enough to foresee its continuing narrative within their collection.
Market price (HKD)
HK$8,040.00
12x75cl
Highest score
87
POP score
120
Scores and tasting notes
An attractive, complex wine, the 1997 Pape-Clement exhibits a dark, saturated ruby color in addition to a gorgeous, smoky, herb, red currant, and cherry liqueur-scented bouquet, a silky texture, spicy oak, and a round, complex, low acid, fleshy finish. As the wine sat in the glass, notes of hot bricks/scorched earth also emerged. This is a complex, supple, delicious wine to drink over the next 10-12 years.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #128
Dark ruby core with pink rim. The nose is closed. The palate has a fine mineral, slight herbaceous character with a soft mouthfeel. Well-balanced - this has a real quality to it give the vintage with a fine strong finish. Certainly an impressive wine but drink over 3-5 years. Tasted April 1999.
Neal Martin - Wine Advocate - Wine Journal