In the glass
Aroma: red plum, cherry, fresh herbs, vanilla, cedar
Palate: ripe cherry, currant, soft spice, gentle tannin, round finish
The second red wine of Pape Clement since 1986. Merlot-dominant for approachability; round red cherry and currant fruit with cedar and soft spice notes. Designed for earlier drinking than the grand vin while reflecting the same Pessac terroir.
What it pairs with
-
Steak frites
Medium body and cherry fruit are classic bistro partners for simply cooked steak; tannins and acidity cut through the fat. -
Grilled sausages with lentils
Earthiness of lentils and savory pork resonate with the wine's soft tannin and herbal notes. -
Roast chicken with vegetables
Medium-bodied red at a comfortable temperature for everyday chicken; balanced fruit won't dominate the dish.
History
Le Clementin du Pape Clement was created in 1986 as the second wine of the estate, intended to offer the pleasure of Pape Clement's Pessac-Leognan terroir in an approachable, earlier-drinking style. The name acknowledges Pope Clement V, the estate's historical patron. It is sold at a price point accessible to everyday drinkers while sharing the same estate management and care.
- 1986 — Le Clementin introduced as the second wine of Chateau Pape Clement
Facts
- Producer
- Chateau Pape Clement
- Grapes
- Merlot (75%), Cabernet Sauvignon (20%), Petit Verdot (3%), Cabernet Franc (2%)
- Classification
- Pessac-Leognan AOC
- Oak
- Approximately 30-40% new French oak; 12-14 months
- ABV
- 13.5%
- Price
- EUR 25-40 at retail
- Drinking window
- 3-10 from vintage
- First vintage
- 1986
Scores
- Wine Advocate 92 (2022 vintage, reviewed 2023)