Le Clémentin de Pape Clément Pessac-Léognan AOC 2012/2013

TASTING NOTES FROM THE CURATOR

A blending of the best Bordeaux-region varieties—predominantly Merlot mixed with Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc—the Pape Clement has a red-violet gemstone color, and the deeply earthy scent of truffles, tilled soil, underbrush, and smoked meats laid over a core of cassis, baked plums, redcurrants, and a touch of lavender. It is a medium- to full-bodied wine full of density and finesse, with a firm foundation of black fruit and earthy undertones and a long, mineral-laced finish.

PAIRINGS

The Bordeaux region boasts of complex wines, and the best way to pair them depends on which part of the region they come from and which grape is dominant. Though Pessac-Léognan is a Left Bank subregion, the Merlot-heavy blend of Le Clémentin lends itself best to Right Bank pairings such as smoky barbecued and grilled meats and hearty spiced dishes like a traditional Shepherd’s pie. It also brings out the best in Asian dishes, perfectly pairing with sweet chili sauces, garlic, and vinegary flavors. With a cheese and charcuterie platter, this is a wine to partner with sharp, semi-hard or hard cheeses like Manchego and Comté, as well as the spicier saucisson blends.

ONCE A FORMER PAPAL ESTATE

The winery of Château Pape Clément by Bernard Magrez takes its name from Bertrand de Goth—Pope Clément V—who was one of the early papal owners of the estate. The neo-Gothic buildings were built in the 13th century and the estate was then already home to 60 hectares of vineyards and sprawling gardens of thousand-year-old olive trees and Lebanese cedars. When Bernard Magrez bought the vineyard in 1986, he built and updated winemaking facilities and added the Le Clémentin wine to the roster. The estate features wine tours and tastings and has 5 elegant suites available for guests to book vacations and romantic getaways all year round.

Store unopened red wines in a cool, dry, and dark place safe from constant vibration. Keep your bottle horizontal in a wine rack or cellar to retain the moistness of the cork. The ideal temperature for storage is between 16 to 18°C. Once opened, a bottle will be good for 3 to 5 days standing upright in the refrigerator.