1998 Château Clinet
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Tasting notes
Critic scores
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
The 1998 Clinet, which was bottled by Ronan’s father just after acquiring the property, has a deep garnet core with a tawny rim. Now at 20-years old it has a well-defined bouquet with brambly red fruit, briary and pressed flowers, perhaps without the presence of fruit that I was expecting. The palate is medium-bodied with a sappy black fruit opening, quite assertive on the entry with a sweet core of fruit. It just cuts away a little quickly compared to more recent vintages. Tasted at the château.
Deep crimson. Lovely richness and concentration on the nose. Sweet start and great density even if not an enormous amount of freshness. Chewy finish. (JR)
Good sheen on the ruby but quite evolved-looking. Smells of treacle toffee – fully mature. Nice drink now but really should have a bit more left to give. Charred tannins. (JR)
About the producer
With Ronan Laborde at the helm, this property has become one of Pomerol’s most sought-after. He has increased the proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon, which historically represented half the vineyard area here.