Tasted ex-chateau and single blind in Southwold. On the nose, the l’Eglise-Clinet 2008 is much broodier and introspective than its peers, the Cabernet Franc imparting seductive truffle and undergrowth aromas. It displays impressive intensity, a nose that is full of character. The palate is full-bodied with lush, saturated tannins that belie a firm backbone. This Pomerol has impressive acidity and depth: “spherical” at first, but those tannins come through with time in the glass. It has beautifully integrated oak with a seamless, classy finish. This is an enigmatic, alluring Pomerol wine.

A remarkable wine in this vintage, L’Eglise Clinet’s 2008 has a color almost as dark as the barrel sample of 2010. Classic mocha and caramel-infused creme de cassis and black cherry notes, with hints of licorice and loamy soil soar from the glass of this opaque ruby/purple, aromatically compelling wine. Opulent, expansive, and savory, with a broad texture, a full-bodied mouthfeel, terrific purity and a layered finish, this is another big, massive wine that transcends the vintage character, and will probably need 7-10 years of bottle age. It should keep for 20 or more years as well. - Robert Parker

This is lilting with perfumy incense and warm cherry confiture aromas giving way to a still-compact core of plum red currant and melted red licorice. The long finish has some grip to shed with plum skin spice and floral notes flittering in and out. Best from 2013 through 2018.-J.M.