2020 La Clotte
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Tasting notes
Tasted blind. Deep purplish crimson. Spicy, chocolate-covered black fruits. Marked freshness on the palate, helping to balance all that oak. Firm and chewy and a bit woody on the palate but has everything for the longer term and the tannins add freshness. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
James Lawther MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jane Anson, Decanter
More reviews and scores
The 2020 La Clotte has a sophisticated bouquet with blackberry, violet, crushed stone and just a hint of truffle oil. It is very delineated, and the oak is beautifully integrated. The palate is medium-bodied, fleshy and caressing in the mouth. Maybe it misses some grip, yet there is weight and presence, with a long, poised and understated finish. Wonderful. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.
From holdings on the outskirts of the town of Saint-Émilion, the Vauthier family's 2020 La Clotte has turned out beautifully, mingling aromas of raspberries and mulberries with hints of petals, incense and vine smoke. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated and vibrant, it's suave and precise, concluding with a penetrating finish. The blend is 85% Merlot with 15% Cabernet Franc.
About the producer
Ch. la Clotte is one of the Vauthier estates – along with Ch. Ausone. Classified as a Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, the estate comprises four hectares of 50-year-old vines on terraced vineyards on the famous limestone plateau.