2018 La Petite Eglise
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
Tasted blind. Thick and sweet without that much drive and some notably dry tannins on the end. May get there eventually… (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
The 2018 La Petite Eglise was picked September 18 to 28 and raised in 35% new oak. It is intriguing to read my notes from barrel, when this was "backward and reticent on the nose," since now is has attained some degree of youthful precocity, the black fruit mingling with kirsch and more floral, violet scents. The palate is medium-bodied and retains a sense of pliancy. Quite glossy, maybe richer than expected, and very persistent and pure, it reveals a hidden hedonism that it kept under wraps in barrel. Thoroughly delicious.
The second wine of Château L'Eglise Clinet, the 2018 La Petite Eglise offers a rich, plump, fruit-forward style offering textbook Pomerol notes of black cherry and blueberry fruits as well as leafy herbs, tobacco, and violets. With silky yet present tannins, medium to full body, and wonderful overall balance and purity, this beautiful second wine is ideal for drinking over the coming 10-15 years while you do your best to keep your hands off the Grand Vin!
About the producer
Ch. l'Eglise-Clinet is one of the most unassuming wine estates in Bordeaux. You'd probably drive past it if you didn't have prior knowledge of its vinous output. There's no ostentatious gateway nor sweeping gravel drive.