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 2008 Clinet is an exceptional Bordeaux Blend from the renowned Pomerol region in Bordeaux, France. With its deep, opaque purple color, this wine is a true showstopper. It is composed of 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, creating a blend that showcases the best qualities of each varietal.

On the nose, the 2008 Clinet offers enticing aromas of sweet creme de cassis, blackberry, plum, and Asian spice. These notes are complemented by hints of licorice and incense, adding complexity and depth. The layered and full-bodied palate delivers stunning purity and a long, lingering finish that lasts for over 40 seconds.

This wine has received rave reviews from top wine publications. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it a score of 94 points, describing it as a "powerful, big, large-scaled effort" with an inky purple color and notes of blackberry, plum, and Asian spice. Wine Spectator also praised its ripe and rich character, noting flavors of mocha, spice, and warm raspberry ganache.

The 2008 Clinet has a great aging potential, with critics suggesting it can be enjoyed for the next 25-30 years. Decanter recommends drinking it now, as it is approaching its perfect moment and offers polish, verve, and impact. Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com predicts that this wine will age well, with its fresh, chewy, and savory style.

Overall, the 2008 Clinet is a star of the vintage and a must-try for any wine enthusiast. Its impressive structure, intense flavors, and remarkable aging potential make it a standout choice for collectors and connoisseurs. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for several years, this wine promises to deliver an unforgettable tasting experience.