1996 Château l'Église-Clinet
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Tasting notes
The 1996 l’Eglise-Clinet has always had an open and Burgundy-like bouquet, pure but like many Pomerol crus in this vintage, not particularly complex. The palate is well balanced with slightly grainy tannin. This is a more masculine and introverted wine compared to the 1995, a little too serious perhaps and needing more flesh toward the linear finish. Not bad at all although it just lacks the fireworks. Tasted over a private dinner in Bordeaux.
Critic scores
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
The Château l'Eglise-Clinet 1996 has a more open bouquet than the 1995, and it still has that almost Burgundy-like purity and (for this Pomerol cru) a lightness of touch. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, grainy tannins and good acidity, though there is a touch of austerity and dryness towards the finish, which makes me think that it will be best enjoyed over the next ten years. Tasted March 2015.
In bottle. Mid to dark garnet. Vital nose with real energy and potential. Racy and a little bit muscular but with great dynamism. Firm with a great spicy appeal. Good acidity and still with some, but not uncomfortable, tannins. Complete and wonderful undertow. I was even more impressed by this than the 1995 which seemed a little wearier. (JR)
About the producer
Ch. l'Eglise-Clinet is one of the most unassuming wine estates in Bordeaux. You'd probably drive past it if you didn't have prior knowledge of its vinous output. There's no ostentatious gateway nor sweeping gravel drive.