Château L'Église Clinet

96-98 Points - Neal Martin

The Grand Vin was picked between 21 September and 4th October for the Merlot, with the Cabernet Franc picked on 6th October. A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc (aged in 80% new oak) it has Burgundy-like minerality and purity on the nose that is taciturn at first, but blossoms nicely in the glass whilst maintaining a sense of restraint and focus. The palate is medium-bodied with very pure fruit and a silky texture. The acidity is extremely well judged, the Cabernet Franc lending this wine just a touch of edginess. There is sublime focus on the mineral-laden finish. One day, Denis Durantou will make a wine that does not merit a stream of superlatives. But that day seems a long way away. Tasted April 2013.

92-94 Points - Robert Parker

95 Points - Neal Martin

The 2014 L’Eglise-Clinet has a gentle, understated bouquet at first that takes time to open, eventually offering black fruit, melted tar, truffle and bay leaf aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannin, rather masculine and thickset at the moment, lightly spiced towards the finish. Much like the Vieux-Château-Certan, this is a little awkward in a blind setting however, it clearly meliorates in the glass and I keep on having to up my score. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.

95 Points - James Suckling

This pure merlot is so wonderful to taste now with violet, berry and chocolate character. It's full-bodied yet in check and balance. Lovely, enticing finish. Second wine of Eglise Clinet. Drink in 2020.

95 Points - James Suckling "Extremely floral aromas, as well as dark berries, blueberries, black truffle and subtle, wet earth. Full-bodied and refined with ultra-fine tannins. Crushed stone. Caressing finish. Second wine of of L'Église Clinet and always from the same two parcels of vineyards. Drink after 2023.."

93 Points - Antonio Galloni "The 2016 La Petite Eglise is bright and beautifully lifted, with striking floral and citrus notes that lend an extra kick of brightness to the Merlot fruit. In 2016, La Petite Eglise is fresh, aromatically nuanced and absolutely impeccable in its overall balance, all of which make it a real joy to taste today. Denis Durantou gave the 2016 12 months in barrel, with about 50% new oak."