2008 Pape Clement
By Chateau Pape Clement
2008 Pape Clement from Chateau Pape Clement, Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux
While Bordeaux enthusiasts may swiftly extol the virtues of the legendary vintages, the 2008 Pape Clement from Chateau Pape Clement asserts a compelling case for those who prize a hint of the extraordinary coupled with enticing maturity. The unique conditions of 2008 wrapped Chateau Pape Clement's offering in an elegant saga of weather change; a season where challenge metamorphosed into triumph through deft vineyard stewardship.
A Year of Dynamic Character
The vinous narrative of the 2008 vintage in Pessac-Léognan belies initial concerns. A year that started with tumultuous weather patterns, 2008 refined itself progressively, unveiling grapes that composed wines of captivating balance. A temperate September endowed the harvest with optimal ripening, allowing the intricate qualities of the terroir to be articulated with finesse in this bottling. At its core, this vintage harmonises opulently layered complexity with crisp definition.
Investing in Sublime Expression
Delving into the glass, this 2008 offering is enrobed in a deep garnet allure, whispering tales of plums and dark cherries buttressed by a matured tannic backbone and adorned with hints of tobacco and spice—an olfactory canvas painted with the broad strokes of Bordeaux sensibilities touched by that year's climactic idiosyncrasies.
This vintage offers investors not only a beautiful representation of the Chateau's perennial capability but also an alluring glimpse into an often-overlooked year. It coalesces investment potential with sheer tasting pleasure – an invaluable blend for connoisseurs and investors alike.
The inherent quality and now scarce availability earmark the 2008 Pape Clement as one to secure for portfolios. It retains the historic charm of a top-tier Pessac-Leognan while presenting an increasingly rare opportunity to experience how 2008 blessed Bordeaux with wines that have elegantly defied early expectations.
An investment in the 2008 Pape Clement presents as both a hedonistic pleasure and a prudent addition to any wine portfolio, encapsulating a year when Bordeaux's magic rose admirably above nature's challenges.
Market price (HKD)
HK$8,430.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
58.67
Scores and tasting notes
One of the top successes of the vintage, this blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot was harvested between October 8 and 24. The late harvest ensured perfect ripeness as evidenced by the sweet bouquet of black cherries, lead pencil shavings, cassis and subtle barbecue smoke. Well-balanced with good acidity, ripe tannins, medium to full body and a layered mouthfeel, this excellent 2008 can be drunk now and over the next 15+ years.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #194
A solid 2008 with subtle berry, currants and light vanilla bean character that turns to chocolate. Full body, with fine tannins and a long, long finish. Best after 2013.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, December 20th 2010
Tasted ex-chateau and single blind in Southwold. The Pape-Clement 2008 is noticeably deeper in colour than its peers. The nose is well defined with crisp blackberry, black olive and a touch of warm gravel. The palate is well balanced with quite racy acidity, although the finish has a tininess to it that will hopefully disappear with time (although it caused me to be more parsimonious with my score.) Tasted January 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2012