2020 La Petite Eglise
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Tasting notes
Tasted blind. Darkest crimson. Reticent, pure dark fruit on the nose. Chewy, generous, straightforward. Everything in place and showing some promise. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
James Lawther MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
The 2020 La Petit Eglise has a high-toned, minty bouquet that needs a bit more complexity and personality. The palate is a step up, featuring fine tannins, well-judged acidity and citrus-fresh red fruit, with some vanillary oak that still needs to be subsumed on the finish. I think it will come good in the end. Very fine. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.
The 2020 La Petite Eglise reveals aromas of sweet cherries and berries mingled with petals and loamy soil, followed by a medium to full-bodied, lively and concentrated palate that's rather firm and serious this year. It will reward patience. Only 4,500 bottles were produced from dedicated parcels.
Lots of blackberries and blueberries with crushed stone and cement aromas and flavors. Medium- to full-bodied with polished tannins that are lightly chewy and tensioned. Long and flavorful. Needs four to five years to soften. Best after 2027.
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.