Chateau Pape Clement 2010, an exceptional vintage

Chateau Pape Clement is one of the oldest classified growths in Bordeaux. It is a Graves Classified Growth in the Pessac-Leognan region appellation.

The estate

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This historic property has been harvesting grapes since 1252, under the leadership of Bertrand de Goth who became Pope Clement V in 1305. This 30 hectare vineyard is planted on Pyrenean gravel that dates back to the Pleistocene period. The farming practices include horse-drawn tilling, grass control and leaf and cluster thinning. The average vine planted is 30 years old and the grape varieties planted are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. 

2010 vintage

© Chateau Pape Clement

2010 was an exceptional vintage, having to prove itself after the qualitative 2009 vintage. The summer of 2010 was cooler and drier than 2009. Due to cooler weather and light rain in June, flowering was not homogenous. Some grapes, merlot in particular, flowered unevenly. The amount of sunshine decreased by 191 hours from the previous year. Following the sunless start to the summer, was a nice and dry summer. August was a month filled with sunlight. The fall months of September and October allowed the grapes to ripen slowly and peacefully due to the cool evenings. The grapes maintained their complexity and tannic structure. When harvest took place (mid-September to late October) the grapes had developed thick skin and had a high sugar/alcohol content. This sugar-alcohol balance will allow the wine to reveal its true self as it softens over the next decade. 

Chateau Pape Clement 2010 tasting notes

The 2010 vintage is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. This Graves Cru Classe has a beautifully dense red garnet color with brown reflections. The nose is wonderfully expressive displaying aromas of vanilla, nutmeg and strawberries. In the mouth, the attack is round, fruity and smooth. Full of flesh and pulp, the tannins are tannins are silky. The wood adds a luxurious and complex flavor to the wine. The finish is long with notes of cocoa, coffee and candied fruit.

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