Chateau Clinet lies at the highest point of the Pomerol Plateau on the Gunz gravel terrace, origin of the appellation’s most prestigious crus. It’s a remarkable terroir of old gravel and deep clay over a subsoil of clinker. The vines sink roots 5 metres deep where they are gently warmed by naturally occurring volcanic stones.

The estate has been producing some of the world’s most prestigious wines for centuries. The Belleyme Map, published in 1785, shows the terroir of Chateau Clinet was already exclusively under vine.

Since the 1980s, Jean-Michel Arcaute has managed the vineyard. He has been instrumental in revolutionizing them, replanting with Merlot instead of Cabernet and introducing hand-harvesting, manual selection, and a longer cuvaison.

Merlot accounts for the vast majority of grape varieties (90%) with the remainder being made up of Cabernet-Sauvignon (9%) and Cabernet Franc (1%). The total area under vine is 11.3 hectares and the average age of the vines is 40 years.

The vines are grown with total respect for the environment, giving pride of place to tilling and grassing rather than using chemicals and the human hand over machines.

The vinification process for Chateau Clinet aims to maintain the freshness, finesse and character. Harvesting is always carried out manually, and following meticulous selection, gravity delivers the grapes to the vats. The cellar layout allows good traceability from the vineyard to the end of the aging period. The production of a well-defined parcel can be followed in each vat, then each barrel.

On average, fermentation and maceration lasts for one month, whereupon the wine is transferred into barrels. ‘Free run’ wines are separated from ‘pressed’ wines, and then aged separately. The wine is aged in French oak barrels. around 60 percent new with the remaining being one-year old.

The 1988 Clinet is a remarkable Bordeaux Blend wine that hails from the esteemed region of Pomerol in Bordeaux, France. With its deep red color, this wine captivates the eye and immediately sets the stage for an indulgent tasting experience.

On the nose, the 1988 Clinet offers an enticing bouquet that is both complex and alluring. Notes of espresso coffee, sweet blackberry, and cherry fruit intertwine with plum and currant, creating a symphony of aromas that entice the senses. As the wine opens up, additional layers of truffles, cèpe, and cigar tobacco emerge, adding a wild and exotic touch.

Upon the first sip, the 1988 Clinet reveals its true character. This medium to full-bodied wine showcases incredible concentration and a velvety texture that coats the palate. Flavors of raspberry jam dance with hints of cooked fruit, chocolate, and dark chocolate, creating a harmonious blend of sweetness and richness. The softness of the tannins adds to the wine's seductive nature, making it a true pleasure to drink.

The 1988 Clinet has been lauded by wine experts throughout the years. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it a score of 92, praising its evolution and noting its status as a sleeper pick. Wine Spectator gave it a score of 93, highlighting its intense aromas and long, flavorful finish. Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com awarded it an impressive score of 94, emphasizing its truffle, dark chocolate, plum, and cherry notes.

This wine has reached its full maturity and is ready to be enjoyed now. Whether you choose to savor it on its own or pair it with a decadent meal, the 1988 Clinet promises to deliver a memorable experience that exemplifies the elegance and sophistication of Bordeaux.