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 2018 Clinet Bordeaux Blend from Pomerol, France is a wine that exudes elegance and refinement. With a deep garnet-purple color, this wine is visually stunning and promises a sensory journey like no other.

On the nose, one is greeted with an intoxicating blend of blackberries and blueberries, accompanied by subtle notes of black chocolate and violets. As the aromas unfold, hints of black truffles, damp soil, and tobacco leaf emerge, adding complexity and intrigue. The nose alone is a testament to the layers of flavors and aromas that await.

Upon tasting, the full-bodied palate is a revelation. Polished and creamy tannins create a beautiful balance, while the texture is incredibly refined. The black fruit flavors cascade across the tongue, reminiscent of stewed black plums, mulberries, and black cherry compote. There is a sense of depth and intensity that is both powerful and alluring.

Renowned wine critics have unanimously praised the 2018 Clinet. James Suckling awards it an impressive 96 points, describing it as "gorgeous" and recommending it for consumption after 2024. Wine Enthusiast rates it at 95 points, highlighting its powerful structure and dark black fruits. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awards it a staggering 97+ points, praising its volcanic eruption of black fruit and molten rock. Decanter also gives it 97 points, noting its vibrancy, polish, and potential for aging.

This wine is a true gem, with potential for aging and evolving over the next 30+ years. It is a testament to the artistry and expertise of the Clinet winery. With its impeccable balance, refined texture, and complex flavors, the 2018 Clinet Bordeaux Blend is a wine that will captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression.