2011 Clinet
By Chateau Clinet
2011 Clinet from Chateau Clinet, Pomerol, Bordeaux
The 2011 vintage from the esteemed right-bank soils of Pomerol presents itself as a testament to the resilience of Chateau Clinet's sophisticated viticulture and winemaking. The year 2011 in Bordeaux was marked by a fitful start with fluctuating conditions, requiring astute management and painstaking care in the vineyard.
Distinctive Vintage, Impeccable Refinement
The 2011 Clinet reveals the mettle and character uniquely forged by such a challenging climatic tapestry. It sidesteps the vintage's broader narrative of uneven quality to assert its place among the illustrious jewels in an investor’s collection. The wine displays a dignified balance of ripe, velvety tannins against a backbone of vivacious acidity—a dance of structure that delivers depth without forfeiting elegance.
A Year Unlike Any Other
Merlot's dominance in the blend triumphs, producing a bouquet that exudes dark plums and cherries swathed in an aristocratic robe of fine oak and earthy whispers. On the palate, this 2011 Clinet from Chateau Clinet unfurls layers of complexity; cassis intermingles with hints of truffle, while graphite undertones anchor the ensemble in Pomerol's legendary terroir. Such intricacy is rarely achieved so harmoniously in challenging vintages like 2011.
The prime drinkability window now opens invitingly for the discerning connoisseur, yielding immediate pleasure yet promising further maturation potential—a genuine asset for wine investment considerations. This composure is characteristic of Chateau Clinet's unwavering dedication to excellence regardless of nature’s whims.
In conclusion, this 2011 Clinet from Chateau Clinet encapsulates an intricate narrative of a year when meticulous craftsmanship turned nature's caprice into vinous gold. It stands as an eloquent testimony to the endurance and adaptability inherent in Pomerol's prestigious parcels, solidifying its role as a venerable contender within any refined investment portfolio.
Market price (GBP)
£710.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
47.33
Scores and tasting notes
Clinet has produced a blockbuster wine, even in the lighter, less consistent vintage of 2011. It reveals a dense purple color as well as an abundance of black cherry, black currant and blackberry fruit intermixed with licorice, incense and a touch of camphor. Full-bodied, opulent and fleshy with a substantial finish, this showy, dramatic 2011 should drink well for 15-20 years. Brilliant!
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2014
Tasted twice the second time at the property with Ronan Laborde. The Clinet 2011 is a blend of 85% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc picked from 7th September until 26th September. It has a ravishing bouquet with multi-layered, creamy dark fruit, blueberry, cassis and a touch of vanilla pod. It soars from the glass and takes no prisoners. The palate is full-bodied with rich saturated tannins, low acidity, rounded and sensual in the mouth with an intense, voluminous finish that leaves a touch of oyster shell as its calling card. A second sample at the chateau promoted the fine tannins, offering a much more delineated finish, much more precise but a little drier (possibly because of the more cloudy weather.) Excellent Mon. Laborde! Tasted April 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2012
This is a rich Pomerol for the vintage with plenty of berry, chocolate and toasted-oak character. Full body with round, soft tannins. Needs two or three years to come together.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, February 19th 2014