2004 will remain in the memory as the driest year since 1962, with only 560 mm of rainfall. The drought conditions began during the winter and continued throughout the spring and summer, though some rainfall in August gave the vines the water they needed and favoured veraison. Glorious weather in September enabled the Merlots to reach full maturity and picking began on 29 September. The grapes were rich in polyphenols and showed excellent sugar concentration. The rest of the harvest was delayed in order to encourage all the aromatic potential of a highly promising vintage. Picking in the best parcels of Cabernet Sauvignon resumed in exceptionally sunny conditions and higher than average temperatures and harvesting was completed on 15 October.
A still youthful dark purple, the wine has a finely constructed nose which develops fresh, precise aromas of blackcurrant and black cherry mingled with sandalwood and graphite. From a precise, round attack, the palate offers pleasant substance, fine texture and harmonious tannins, lifted by forward and crisp black fruit. The long and delectable finish shows beautiful balance, rounding off a classic Clerc Milon nearing full maturity.
