2010 Pape Clement
By Chateau Pape Clement
2010 Pape Clement from Chateau Pape Clement, Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux
Immersion into the 2010 vintage of Pape Clement from Chateau Pape Clement offers a glimpse into what one might call the epitome of a Bordeaux blend at its zenith. This particular year, lauded for its consistent climate throughout the growing season, has unfolded a tapestry of complexity within the bottle, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of the Chateau's winemaking.
An Epitome of Precision from a Heralded Vintage
The 2010 is acutely expressive, a vintage in which Pessac-Leognan's gravelly soils and deft touch in vine management culminated in an exquisite tannin structure and longevity. This wine bodes exceptionally well for fine wine investors seeking a storied bottle that ensconces both pedigree and promise.
A Harmonious Ballet of Sensory Elegance
In this incarnation, the 2010 Pape Clement divulges an aromatic cornucopia, melding ripe dark fruits with an earthy piquancy and ethereal hints of smoked herbs. The palate does not betray this elaborate introduction; rather, it complements it with flawlessly integrated oak nuances and silky-smooth texture. A harmonious balance is achieved; a harmony that beckons the taste buds but also attests to the age-worthy structure of this resplendent wine.
This vintage stands as a towering testament to a favourable season in Bordeaux; one which presented sufficient warmth and dryness to optimally ripen grapes, yet enough reprieve to protect their quintessential verve. Aged under vigilant custodianship, the wine's layers are only just beginning to unfurl their intricacies.
A Long-Term Attraction for the Discerning Collector
For enthusiasts seeking to embellish their collection or investors looking to diversify their portfolio, the 2010 Pape Clement from Chateau Pape Clement promises not just liquid elegance but an investment holding significant allure. Its evolution will surely be one savoured and scrutinised with great anticipation amongst oenophiles who appreciate wines that stand as both artwork and testament to a remarkable vintage.
Market price (SGD)
$2,720.00
12x75cl
Highest score
100
POP score
81.5
Scores and tasting notes
I certainly underrated the 2010 Pape Clement from barrel, rating it only 93-95+. (Thank God I put a “plus” there!) Having tasted it four times in Bordeaux, and rating it perfect three times and 99 the fourth time, this final blend of 51% Merlot, 47.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 1.5% Petit Verdot is perfection in a bottle. Tipping the scales at 14.5% natural alcohol, there are 8,000 cases of it. Its sublime elegance, the power, the medium to full-bodied texture, the silky tannins, the subtle notes of smoke, lead pencil shavings, black currants, charcoal, camphor, blueberry and cassis fruit are all remarkable. It is a rich, full-throttle wine, but the elegance and the great terroir of Pape Clement come through in abundance. It is slightly more developed and evolved than the 2005 was at a similar point in its evolution, but it certainly needs another 5-7 years to develop further nuances, which it surely will. This wine will last 30-40+ years. Kudos to proprietor Bernard Magrez, who has built an empire based on high quality more than any other characteristic.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #205
Intense blueberry nose with great precision and expression. Full and vibrant on the palate with a minty note. Vanilla. Wonderful structure. Firm but ripe tannins and very long. Needs time to soften. Great potential. Try in 2016.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, November 14th 2013
Tasted at the UGC in London and then at the chateau. The Grand Vin is a blend of 51% Merlot, 47.5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1.5% Petit Verdot and bottled after 18 months in barrel (80% new oak) without fining or filtration. It has a relatively understated, again quite “classic” bouquet that is very “Graves” in style – a little earthy with hints of tobacco and cedar. The aromatics gain some momentum in the glass, offering a black olive tapenade. The palate is medium-bodied with a very supple entry. Again, I appreciate the acidity to this Pape Clement that binds those dusky, earthy black fruit together and then it builds nicely towards the peppery finish. This Pape Clement effortlessly conveys its terroir – excellent. Tasted November 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Mar 2013