2008 Climens
By Chateau Climens
2008 Climens from Chateau Climens, Sauternes, Bordeaux, France
The extraordinary 2008 vintage of Climens from Chateau Climens heralds from a line of illustrious predecessors yet astonishingly dances to the rhythm of its own distinct terroir-driven tune. It's this exceptional year that turned the heads of fine wine enthusiasts, astounded by the delicate poise between vivacity and voluptuousness unique to this vintage.
A Vintage of Delicate Mastery
2008's growing season in Sauternes bore witness to nature's artistry, where an initially damp summer was met with an Indian summer so imperative for developing the noble rot crucial to Climens' inimitable nectar. The result is a wine marked by an elegant complexity, born of an autumn that patiently waited for each grape to reach its zenith of botrytisation.
The aromatic exuberance is undeniable: a melange of candied fruits, apricot, and honeyed botrytis notes swirl together in the glass. On the palate, one discovers a synthesized orchestra of vibrant acidity and luscious sweetness—a hallmark of this superb vintage—yielding a wine with the remarkable ageing potential.
An Investment Worthy of Connoisseurs’ Cellars
The combination of climatic conditions has endowed the 2008 Climens with an incredible structure that allows it to be a centrepiece in any discerning investor’s portfolio. As it continues to evolve in bottle, the depth and persistence have positioned this Sauternes as one of the most enticing investment wines from Bordeaux’s sweet wine canon.
As time gently unfolds the layers within this resplendent vintage, collectors and drinkers alike revel in its unfolding narrative—a tale spun from golden-hued, perfectly botrytised Semillon grapes. The 2008 Climens unmistakably offers a glimpse into the profound expertise embodied by Chateau Climens and the unparalleled enchantment of Sauternes at its best.
In Summary
The luminous allure of the 2008 Climens by Chateau Climens represents more than just a singular magnificent vintage; it stands as an ode to the unique dance between vine and climate that makes Sauternes revered amongst fine wine aficionados. Its demonstrable longevity and investment allure suggest a compelling addition for those seeking not just a sip of splendour but also a future legacy gracing glass and cellar.
Market price (SGD)
$1,030.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
47.69
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted single blind against its peers. This has a very well -defined nose of dried pineapple, quince and vanilla pod that unfolds seductively in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with a mellifluous texture, although there remains some oak that needs to be subsumed into the wine. It displays fine definition towards the finish with impressive length. Always a little curmudgeonly in its youth, this Climens deserves a decade in bottle. Tasted January 2012.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 22 December 2011