Clos l’Eglise 2020 is the grand vin from this 6-hectare Pomerol estate on Bordeaux’s Right Bank, owned by the Garcin‑Cathiard family. The 2020 is a Merlot-led blend—reported as 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc—raised for a long élevage of roughly 18 to 24 months in 100% new French oak. The vineyard is farmed using organic methods, and production is typically small for the appellation, with the grand vin often around 2,000 cases in most vintages.
In the glass, the wine is consistently described as dark, concentrated, and oak-framed, with a profile that leans into Pomerol’s signature richness while keeping definition. James Suckling (96 points) highlights a “pretty nose of chocolate, praline, blueberries, lavender and bramble berries,” followed by “firm, compact tannins” and an “enticing bitter chocolate character,” recommending patience: “Try in 2027.”
Several reviewers underscore both power and balance. Decanter’s Jane Anson (94 points) calls it an “inky ruby” and a “muscular big-styled Pomerol,” praising “velvety tannins” and “great persistency,” adding that it “deftly walks the line between concentrated and nuanced.” Vinous’ Neal Martin (95 points) finds “blackberry, loam, hints of truffle and iron filings,” with a palate that is “well-balanced and full of freshness,” finishing with “seamlessly integrated oak,” concluding: “elegant, yet with plenty of horsepower.”
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (William Kelley, 93 points) notes “ripe plums and raspberries… rose petals and toasty new oak,” describing a “medium to full-bodied, velvety and enveloping wine” with a “youthfully chewy finish.”
The top acclaim is emphatic. Jeb Dunnuck awards an excellent 99 points, calling it “a real ‘wow’ wine” and “the finest wine I’ve tasted from the Garcin‑Lévêque family.” Jeff Leve (The Wine Cellar Insider) also goes high at 97, describing an “opulent, lush, silky and fresh” finish and suggesting a long drinking window (2025–2055).
