2014 L'Eglise Clinet
By Chateau L'Eglise Clinet
2014 L'Eglise Clinet from Chateau L'Eglise Clinet, Pomerol, Bordeaux
The 2014 vintage for Bordeaux was one of redemption and surprise, coming after a trio of challenging years. Looking specifically at the 2014 L'Eglise Clinet from Chateau L'Eglise Clinet in Pomerol, I find myself ensconced in the layers of complexity that sculpt this wine into an art form rather than a mere consumable.
Refinement in the Glass: A Testament to Terroir
Though many conflate Pomerol's potential with softer, warmer years, 2014 was a revelation. The growing season that started hesitantly ended with an Indian summer, imparting to the 2014 L'Eglise Clinet an understated opulence interspersed with an enduring backbone of acidity. It is a testament to Denis Durantou, the late artisan vintner and his capable team, intimating their intimate knowledge of their prestigious terroir.
The Sublime Expression of Calm Before the Bounty
As I swirl the deep ruby concoction in my glass, I am bemused by how the flavours have evolved – a veritable ballet between dark fruits, truffle and a hint of violet. The tannins, while present, are silken – threading through the palate with finesse yet offering structure that promises remarkable longevity. Investment-wise, it makes for a discreet but astute addition to any portfolio looking for wines with maturing potential.
In my professional opinion, focusing on wine investment prospects, the most impressive facet about this wine remains its eloquent prescience. The vineyard's singular approach endured despite Bordeaux's initial uncertainty over the year, and now the 2014 L'Eglise Clinet shines confidently among its peers – a plucky triumph in a challenging milieu.
In summation, this brilliant offering from Chateau L'Eglise Clinet continues to blossom and offers a wise option for those seeking wines with both immediate charm and prospective growth. Tasting this wine is akin to capturing history in a glass – one where nature's unpredictability yielded to human resolve and expertise in winemaking.
Market price (USD)
$1,350.00
12x75cl
Highest score
96
POP score
68.75
Scores and tasting notes
No tasting note available.
Tim Atkin - TimAtkin.com (04/2015)
The 2014 L'Eglise Clinet was tasted from a single bottle but from two glasses, each poured at different times before I arrived for the tasting. They were almost identical on the nose but the one poured later was more compact. It has a very pure bouquet with blackberry, myrtle, a touch of iris and a touch of garrigue (actually reminiscent of fynbos, the wild South African shrubland). The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannin, a silver bead of acidity, wonderful precision and beguiling purity. This is an outstanding Pomerol for the vintage from Denis Durantou, sophisticated and classy, yet the bottom line is quintessentially Pomerol. Bravo Denis.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 31 March 2017
No tasting note available.
James Suckling - Jamesuckling.com (04/2015)
No tasting note available.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate
No tasting note available.
Wine Spectator - The Wine Spectator
No tasting note available.
Jancis Robinson - JancisRobinson.com