2006 Clinet
By Chateau Clinet
2006 Clinet from Chateau Clinet, Pomerol, Bordeaux
In the quaint but illustrious vineyards of Pomerol, an area synonymous with the production of profoundly expressive wines, the 2006 Clinet from Chateau Clinet embodies a particular finesse that year-over-year conditions rendered uniquely singular. My own engagement with this vintage has developed into a fine appreciation for its subtler points, which are exemplary of the joys inherent in fine wine investment.
A Vintage of Poise and Complexity
While the 2006 vintage in Bordeaux did not receive the plaudits perhaps lavished upon its immediate predecessors – the venerable 2005s and later, the iconic 2009s – there lies within it an air of quiet confidence that can often signify a savvy acquisition for the astute investor. The chirpier nature of the season has endowed the 2006 Clinet with an upright structure and a composure that is a rarer find in more exuberant years.
Layered Elegance from Chateau Clinet
The nuance demonstrated by this particular rendition from Chateau Clinet reveals itself through a layered tapestry of dark fruit with undercurrents of truffle and leather – typical traits befitting a Pomerol of pedigree. Yet, what distinguishes the 2006 Clinet is its poised longevity and graceful evolution; it's an offering that has reached a delightful maturity without conceding any vibrancy or depth.
On the palate, this wine presents a compelling argument for reserved elegance over opulent flamboyance. Aged to perfection, it proffers fine-grained tannins and a balanced acidity that assures continued refinement and complexity as it rests in cellars of earnest collectors.
For investors seeking a mature wine showing nuanced growth potential and exemplary vinous craft from one of Bordeaux's most esteemed terroirs, the 2006 Clinet imparts these qualities in spades. It stands as one of Pomerol's dignified expressions of the year's harvest, encapsulating an appealing chapter in the history of Chateau Clinet.
In conclusion, while other vintages may vie for more immediate attention, there is merit in consideration when one chooses to add such an understated yet captivating representation to their portfolio.
Market price (HKD)
HK$9,640.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
84.17
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted blind at Bordeaux Index's Clinet vertical. Matured for 16 months in 60% new oak, this has a more expressive nose than the 2005 but perhaps not quite as complex. There are touches of blackberry and raspberry leave, complemented by bay leaf with time. The palate is full-bodied and very well balanced, the tannins just as fine as the 2005. The oak is prominent at first, but returning after an hour in bottle it has wonderful tension and vibrancy, great purity towards the finish that has more panache than post-millennial vintage. Superb
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2011
Tasted at Bordeaux Index's annual 10-Year On tasting in London and then later at the château.The 2006 Château Clinet has a nose that appears to have reached maturity. Red berry fruit, red cherries, a touch of fig jam coming through with aeration. It is not as complex as the top tier vintages from Ronan Laborde and his team, yet there is charm in spades. The palate is medium-bodied with chewy tannin, grippy in the mouth and with an almost crunchy, cracked black pepper finish that is a little more reserved than I was expecting. I would personally open bottles of the 2006 over the next 10-15 years. Tasted March 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 29 May 2016
Extremely backward, firm, and virile, this macho wine exhibits full-bodied power, a dense blackberry, smoky nose, huge tannins, but impressive stuffing and depth. This is not for the faint of heart, and also not for those who need immediate drinkability. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2027.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #181 Feb 2009