Chateau Clerc Milon 2020

Winery Background & History

Château Clerc Milon, situated in the esteemed Pauillac appellation of Bordeaux, France, boasts a rich heritage dating back to the 18th century. Elevated to Fifth Growth status in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, the estate has consistently produced wines that exemplify the depth and complexity characteristic of Pauillac.

Producer & Winemaker

Under the ownership of Baron Philippe de Rothschild S.A., Château Clerc Milon benefits from the expertise and resources of a family renowned for their contributions to Bordeaux winemaking. The dedicated winemaking team meticulously crafts wines that reflect the unique terroir of the estate.

Vineyard

The estate encompasses approximately 41 hectares of vineyards, planted on the gravelly soils typical of Pauillac. The varietal composition includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and a small percentage of Carmenère. Sustainable viticultural practices are employed to ensure the health and vitality of the vines.

The Wine

The 2020 vintage of Château Clerc Milon is a blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36.5% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot, and 0.5% Carmenère. This assemblage showcases the estate’s commitment to traditional Bordeaux varietals, resulting in a wine that embodies the classic Pauillac style.

Vintage

The 2020 growing season presented challenges, including a warm and dry summer leading to early ripening. Despite these conditions, the vintage is noted for producing wines with concentration, balance, and excellent aging potential.

ABV%

The alcohol content of the 2020 Château Clerc Milon is approximately 13.3%.

Vinification and Aging Method

Grapes were hand-harvested and underwent fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats to preserve fruit purity. The wine was then aged in French oak barrels, with a portion being new oak, for a period that enhances its complexity and structure.

Grape Varietals

The 2020 blend consists of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36.5% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot, and 0.5% Carmenère.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep cherry red with garnet highlights.

• Nose: An intense and complex array of aromas where macerated black fruit mingles with liquorice and cedarwood.

• Palate: Medium to full-bodied, fleshy, and layered with seamless concentration. Lively acids and a long, saline, violet-inflected finish.

Food and Wine Pairing

This wine pairs well with roasted meats, such as lamb or beef, as well as game dishes and hearty stews. It also complements a variety of cheeses, including aged cheddar and Gouda.

Service Methods

• Temperature: Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to fully appreciate its aromatic profile and structure.

• Decanting: Decanting for about 1–2 hours is recommended to allow the wine to open up and reveal its full complexity.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2020 Château Clerc Milon is suitable for consumption now but has the potential to develop further complexity with additional cellaring. Proper storage conditions—cool, dark, and humid—will preserve its quality and allow for aging through 2035.

Scores

• James Suckling: 97 points – “Very pure character to this wine with crushed fruit and round tannins. It’s really transparent and delicate, yet bold at the same time. Super tannins. Vivid. Very primary and berry-like.”

• Wine Spectator: 94 points – “Sleek and refined, with a very fine-grained structure.”

• Wine Enthusiast: 95 points – “A powerful wine, rich in tannins and with a solid structure. The wine’s black fruits are just beginning to emerge, promising a fine future.”