Eglise Clinet 2011

vWith a dense ruby/purple color is followed by a pure nose of mulberries, cherry liqueur and spring flowers, but no hint of oak, this full-bodied, opulent, rich beauty exhibits impressive purity, texture, richness and length. Not as structured or tannic as Trotanoy, it moves more in the direction of the opulence and flashy, showy fruit of Hosanna and Petrus. It should drink well for 15-20 years.

The 2011 L’Eglise-Clinet was picked 12 to 15 September for the Merlot and 24 September for the Cabernet Franc. It has a harmonious bouquet that does not quite possess the vivacity and fruit intensity of the 2012. This is much more conservative in style but still very attractive with scents of mulberry, black truffle and light mushroom scents, perhaps ushering in secondary aromas quicker than the 2012. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannin, crisp acidity, a little spicier than the succeeding vintage but with fine salinity towards the finish. Tasted at the l’Eglise-Clinet vertical at the château in April 2018.