Chateau Clerc Milon 2022

Introduction

This red wine originates from France, specifically from the Pauillac subregion of the Médoc in Bordeaux. Classified as a Fifth Growth in 1855, Château Clerc Milon is situated between the First Growths Château Mouton Rothschild and Château Lafite Rothschild. The modern history of the estate began in 1970 when Baron Philippe de Rothschild acquired the then-neglected property, initiating a transformation that has seen it become one of the Médoc's most refined and consistent voices. The winery's philosophy emphasizes clarity and terroir expression, supported by a state-of-the-art gravity-fed winery inaugurated in 2011.

Wine Description

Chateau Clerc Milon 2022 presents a deep purple-red or dark ruby colour with plum reflections. The nose is multi-faceted and intense, offering a sensational perfume of crème de cassis, wild berries, and bilberry, layered with notes of spring flowers, spice, pepper, and violet. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and concentrated yet retains a weightless, silky mouthfeel with powerful, well-integrated tannins. It is characterized by an exceptional balance between the freshness of liquorice and mineral notes and a controlled power that reveals elegance and precision. This blend consists of 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Carménère. The ABV typically ranges around 14.5%, and the estate is HVE3 certified for sustainable viticulture. The optimal drinking window is from 2028 through 2055.

Accolades

• Jeb Dunnuck - 97 points.

• James Suckling - 96 points.

• Yves Beck - 97 points.

• Falstaff - 96 points.

• Decanter - 95 points.

• Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - 95 points.

Food Pairing

The intense structure and rich fruit of this Pauillac make it an ideal partner for classic meat-based dishes. It pairs perfectly with roast lamb, grilled beef, veal, and game. Its spicy and mineral undertones also complement savory mushroom-based pastas, braised duck, and hearty fish courses like tuna. For a local pairing, consider serving it with an entrecôte à la bordelaise.

Vintage Quality

The 2022 vintage in Pauillac was defined by an exceptionally hot and dry growing season with several heatwaves that produced small, highly concentrated berries. Despite these extreme conditions, the vines' deep roots and the June rains allowed for a rare balance of intensity, freshness, and velvety tannins. The winemakers' skill in managing gentle extraction resulted in a wine that embodies the concentration of the vintage while remaining elegantly poised.