Chateau Clinet Pomerol 2012

Modest but sure of its presence, Clinet lies at one of the highest points upon the renowned plateau at the heart of Pomerol - instantly recognisable by its red shutters and beautiful roses. It is home to one of the oldest vineyards in the appellation, with traces of the vineyard's existence dating back to 1595. This vineyard is equally famed for offering wine with an incomparable character and quality.

Chateau Clinet, owned by the Laborde family, produces wonderfully smooth wines. 

Its vineyards stand at the highest point of the Pomerol plateau, in the heart of the appellation’s most prestigious estates. 

Sustainable viticulture methods are used to tend the vineyard; the average age of the vines is 47 years. 

The cellars are equipped with state-of-the- art facilities. 

Irregular weather conditions during the growing season led to uneven bud-break and flowering, which heralded a low-yield harvest. 

Summer was very dry and sunny. Not a drop of rain from 15th July to 20th September! 

The consequent water constraints speeded up the ripening of the grapes, particularly on the young Merlot vines, which were harvested on 8th and 14th September. 

To face the challenge of this vintage, CLINET has taken innovative steps in several areas and harvested its grapes in multiple passes with selective picking, for the very first time. 

All parcels were harvested in two or sometimes three passes through the vineyard to pick each grape as it reached perfect maturity. 

The harvest ended on 9th and 10th October, with the old Merlot vines and the Cabernet vines (Franc and Sauvignon). 

The harvest, down by nearly 30% compared to the 2011 vintage, is the result of rigorous selection, in order to offer precision-made wines that are complex, well-balanced and refreshing with crisp fruit flavours. 

Château CLINET 2012 is black- purple in colour. 

Full of charm on the nose, it exudes aromas of wild raspberries, blackberries and wild strawberries. 

The lush fruit intertwines subtly with flavours of cocoa, toast, liquorice, vanilla and Madagascar pepper. 

Silky and intense on the palate. Its rich, smooth mouthfeel oozes an intricate blend of ripe fruit and warm spice. 

A lingering, flavourful finish.