Description
A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, the Château l’Eglise-Clinet 2014 – which was a very good vintage for this estate – has aromas of red cherry, dark fruits, cedar and sweet spice. The palate is medium bodied with firm, silky tannins and a great level of juicy acidity. A wine of great structure that has reached its drinking window but will continue to evolve over the next decade or so.
The late great Denis Durantou acquired Château l’Eglise-Clinet in 1983 and the estate has been producing outstanding quality wines ever since. Originally part of Clos l’Eglise and Châteaux Clinet, the estate came to prominence in the 1950’s as the vineyards were split off to create l’Eglise-Clinet. The two other estates still exist and are amongst the elite whose wines currently fetch the highest prices. Today the estate is run by Durantou’s daughters, Noémie and Constance – who are also in charge at the other Durantou estates La Chenade and Les Cruzelles. The average age of the vines at l’Eglise-Clinet is 45 years, with most dating back to the 1950’s when the estate was created. They are planted on iron-rich clay, gravel and sand. Merlot is the dominant variety of course, with Cabernet Franc accounting for around a quarter of plantings. The wines of l’Eglise-Clinet are refined and elegant with great structure and complexity that allows for long-term ageing.
Food matches: Great with the classic meat dishes, especially game, but also with hearty fish, mushrooms and Asian food.
