2021 Château Clinet, Pomerol, Bordeaux

Merlot 75%, Cabernet Sauvignon 25%.

Clinet’s high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon is now a bit higher (some Merlot was removed in 2019). Ronan Laborde hopes to reach 50% Cabernet Sauvignon on his deep gravels. Unsurprisingly, Clinet tends to be more muscular, dark and brooding – particularly in recent hot vintages. But the ’21 has allowed contrasts to appear; with the ripe aromas of plum and Asian spice there are leavening notes of slate and tobacco. Enough of Clinet’s usual richer style remains, but there is also some subtlety and weave from the vintage that suits the wine very well indeed.

Drink 2028 - 2045

Our score: 17.5/20

Berry Bros. & Rudd