1997 Clinet
By Chateau Clinet
1997 Clinet from Chateau Clinet, Pomerol, Bordeaux
In the constellation of fine wines, the 1997 Clinet from Chateau Clinet emerges as a testament to the resilience and finesse of Pomerol terroir amidst a challenging season. Eschewing the adversities posed by an erratic climate, this vintage encapsulates the subtle dance between adversity and triumph, resulting in a wine of noteworthy complexity and charm.
Delving into the 1997 Vintage
As our palates venture back to the late 90s where a capricious growing season kept vignerons on tender hooks, we discover the vigour with which Chateau Clinet approached their craft. Navigating through spring frosts to a warm, dry summer finale that brought redemption, the 1997 vintage benefited from an eleventh-hour reprieve. This turn of fate has crafted a merlot-dominated blend that whispers tales of dark berries laced with an earthy truffle undertone; an aromatic narrative emblematic of Pomerol's esteemed soils.
The Investment Perspective on 1997 Clinet
From an investment standpoint, the 1997 Clinet nurtures more than just an oenophilic satisfaction; it presents an attractive proposition for those seeking mature Bordeaux with immediate drinking appeal. The wine’s supple tannins and merlot-driven lushness make it a prime candidate to grace both cellar and table, offering an alluring juxtaposition of accessibility and longevity. It's no exaggeration that demand for gracefully aged Pomerol continues unabated amongst connoisseurs and collectors alike.
The accomplished fusion of complex flavour profiles and investment allure render the 1997 Clinet a coveted piece in any judicious collection. Its evolution over time mirrors that of Bordeaux itself: a region perennially adapting and persevering through every ebb and flow cast upon its terroirs. As I revisit this beguiling vintage, it is with a sense of respect for its journey and anticipation for its welcomed maturity upon the palate.
Embarking on an Oenological Odyssey
Embark upon your own oenological odyssey; let the 1997 Clinet from Chateau Clinet be your compass to the rich tapestry that is Pomerol. In each bottle lies a story written through its vintages — carefully curated expressions of time and place just waiting to be unveiled by those who seek both pleasure and smart wine investment opportunities.
Current market price
£1,000.00
12x75cl
Highest score
89
POP score
111.11
Scores and tasting notes
The 1997 Clinet has turned out better than expected from barrel. Its exotic nose of truffles, vanilla, plum liqueur, black fruits, and Asian spices leads to a plump, fat wine with notes of coffee, coconut cream, and blackberries. Surprisingly dense, and revealing lots of tannin, it requires 1-2 years of cellaring, and should drink well for 10-12 years. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2012+.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 20 April 2000
Tasted blind at Bordeaux Index's Clinet vertical. Like the 1996, the Clinet 1997 is mature in appearance but it has an attractive, lifted, if not complex bouquet that is quite floral in style, hints of red fruits, jasmine, Clementine and iron rust. The palate is medium-bodied with good grip on the entry, very good depth with notes of orange peel, mushroom, thyme and a tannic, quite masculine, ferrous finish. Moderate length, quite assertive and but with a pleasant dry savoury aftertaste. This is not bad considering the vintage, but I would not leave bottles too much longer. Tasted February 2011.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2011