1995 Clinet
By Chateau Clinet
1995 Clinet from Chateau Clinet, Pomerol, Bordeaux
In the canon of Bordeaux's illustrious vintages, the 1995 Clinet from Chateau Clinet holds a distinct position. The season's providential combination of abundant sunshine tempered by timely rain brought forth a crop replete with ripe fruit while preserving essential acidity – creating the foundations for a monumental Pomerol.
A Vintage Worthy of the Cellar
Perfumed with an exotic bouquet, this Pomerol is a tapestry woven from plush merlot with dashes of cabernet franc and cabernet sauvignon. It is opulent, yet not ostentatious, characterised by its ever-evolving array of black fruit, truffle and earthy undertones which have rounded beautifully over time. The palate is an intensive exercise in balance, with refined tannins supporting layers of dark cherry and hints of cigar box - testament to its judicious maturation in French oak. The 1995 vintage was marked by intense competition amongst winegrowers but Clinet's offering emerged as one of the most distinguished examples of the year’s potential.
A Tapestry of Terroir
The terroir of Pomerol typically imbues its wines with great elegance and power – a signature that is undeniably present in this 1995 vintage. The unique iron-rich clays coupled with gravel soils provide both mineral complexity and suave refinement in the glass, ensuring that it captures the essence of its storied landscape.
The 1995 Clinet remains a formidable contender within the investment market. A clear signifier of quality and rarity, it holds a special allure for collectors and enthusiasts alike. As it continues to reside gracefully in cellars worldwide, this particular vintage not only surmounts expectations but also encapsulates the dense layers of Pomerol's enigmatic terroir.
Conclusion: A Testament to Time
The resonance of Chateau Clinet's craftsmanship fused with a benevolent season leaves us with the 1995 vintage - one that conforms to none but its lofty standards. In times when wine is as much an asset as it is artistry, the lasting appeal of this vintage echoes its merit for both collector adoration and investment consideration.
Market price (GBP)
£1,910.00
12x75cl
Highest score
96
POP score
119.38
Scores and tasting notes
Another extraordinary wine made in a backward vin de garde style, the 1995 Clinet represents the essence of Pomerol. The blackberry, cassis liqueur-like fruit of this wine is awesome. The color is saturated black/purple, and the wine extremely full-bodied and powerful with layers of glycerin-imbued fruit, massive richness, plenty of licorice, blackberry, and cassis flavors, full body, and a thick, unctuous texture. This is a dense, impressive offering from administrator Jean-Michel Arcaute. This wine should continue to improve for another 10-25 years. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2025.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 22 February 1998
Tasted blind at Bordeaux Index's Clinet vertical. With a wide tawny rim, this has a light but well defined nose with touches of beef stock, sage and juniper berry. It is quite elegant and retaining moderate vigour. With further aeration there is a touch of orange rind emerging and the aromatics gain cohesion. The palate is medium-bodied with a coarse, black pepper tinged entry, hard tannins and a rather forced, dry, pinched finish that detracts from the overall effect. Tasted February 2011.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2011