2016 Clinet
By Chateau Clinet
2016 Clinet from Chateau Clinet, Pomerol, Bordeaux
In the pantheon of Pomerol estates, Chateau Clinet resonates with a refined harmony that speaks both to the dedicated connoisseur and the discerning investor. The 2016 Clinet from this esteemed chateau stands as a testament to an extraordinary vintage in Bordeaux, one that has elicited murmurs of comparison with the legendary 1947—an annus mirabilis for the right bank.
Vintage Distinction: The Exquisite Balance of 2016
The narrative of 2016 in Pomerol is one of tension between a challenging growing season and the eventual triumph of terroir coupled with astute winemaking. A damp, cool spring gave way to a summer of near-perfect conditions, culminating in a September and October that bestowed optimal ripeness upon the merlot-driven blends in this clay-rich appellation. The result—in the case of the 2016 Clinet—is a symphonic expression of layered complexity, poise, and remarkable longevity.
Deep Dive into Elegance: Sensory Impressions
Swirling in the glass, the 2016 Clinet reveals itself with an opulent garnet hue and an aromatic cornucopia ranging from ripe black cherries to an intoxicating truffle undertone – signatures of merlot at its most ambitious. The palate carries forth this grandeur with seamless integration of tannins that exclaim their pedigree but do so with a whisper rather than a shout. Elements converge around a core of dark fruit, accented by hints of cocoa and a subtle mineral seam—a nod to the iron-rich soils that cradle the roots of Clinet's vines.
While investing in wine carries its nuances as vintages ebb and flow in recognition and desirability, the 2016 Clinet has confidently found favor amongst collectors who prize structure and potential for evolution over time. Its poise suggests that while immediately enjoyable, patience will unveil further intricacies within its depths—a hallmark of great Bordeaux and a beacon for investment.
The Essence of 2016 Captured
In sum, the 2016 vintage from Chateau Clinet crystallizes what makes Pomerol's wines so compelling: power, elegance, and an uncanny ability to convey both immediacy and promise. For enthusiasts looking to broaden their portfolio or investors seeking to solidify it with outstanding Bordeaux selections, this well-sculpted vintage inherently understands its role in the grand tapestry of fine wine legacy.
Market price (GBP)
£840.00
12x75cl
Highest score
97
POP score
49.41
Scores and tasting notes
The 2016 Clinet is composed of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. It was aged using the Oxoline system, in 70% new and 30% one-year-old barrels for 16 months. It has a deep garnet-purple color with cedar and smoked meats on the nose giving way to black and red plums and earthy notions with wafts of cassis and pencil shavings. The palate is medium to full-bodied, elegant, polished and vivacious with loads of red and black fruit layers and an earthy finish. Around 4,416 cases produced.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 30 November 2018
Dark in profile, with plum, blackberry and black currant fruit melded together, while wood spice and bramble hints run along the edges. Plenty of depth and length here, with lively tobacco and tar notes on the finish. This fleshes out with air too. Impressive, in the richer style.—J.M.
Wine Spectator - The Wine Spectator (James Molesworth)
The linear character to this is so impressive with beautiful blackberries and blueberries. Crushed stones and minerals. Medium to full body. Very pretty.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, April 4th 2017
Blackish crimson. Headily sweet and gamey on the nose with dark, purple-fruit aromas and then this sample went dead on me on the palate. Sucked out the saliva. Very drying end. Awkward, stodgy finish. Not for me. Unripe phenolics.
Jancis Robinson - jancisrobinson.com