Chateau Clinet   Clinet

2002 Clinet

By Chateau Clinet

2002 Clinet from Chateau Clinet, Pomerol, Bordeaux

The millennial shift had left an impalpable footprint in Bordeaux by the time 2002 emerged, heralding a vintage with subtleties rarer than its predecessors. The 2002 Clinet from Chateau Clinet represents such a curiosity, not least because it is a testament to the resilience and potential for grace under the nuanced climatic tapestry of that year's Pomerol terroir.

 

The Blossom Amidst Adversity

Given the challenges presented by the cool and damp conditions of the vintage, the astute vintners of Chateau Clinet wielded their clippers with circumspection and deftness. Yields were prudently managed, ensuring only the finest Merlot and Cabernet crops contributed to the blend. Success, as mirrored in the 2002 Clinet glass, was borne not of abundance but calculated precision.

 

The Palette of Pomerol's Patience

The opening bouquet on this venerable 2002 imbues a mélange of blackberry compote and an earthy truffle essence, articulating a narrative of maturity that intertwines with tertiary notes of leather and cedarwood; hallmarks of its lineage and Pomerol character. On the palate, this Clinet unfolds slowly, assiduously unveiling layers of complexity with black fruit harmonizing with savoury undertones, culminating in an enduring, silky finish.

An investment in fine wine is as much about pleasure as it is about prudence. The 2002 Clinet stands as a prime exemplar within this philosophy—a wise inclusion to one's portfolio, encapsulating not just the fruit but indeed the fortitude of an earnest vintage. With nearly two decades of cellaring already behind it, discerning collectors will note its prime drinking window comfortably extending into the present day.

In closing, one must recognise that each sip of this accomplished vintage resonates with the tale of its creation. The 2002 Clinet is a connoisseur's keepsake from a year where Chateau Clinet victoriously paraded experience and expertise—a Pomerolian treasure wrapped in a rich tapestry of vintner's craft and nature's whim.

Current market price

$1,830.00

12x75cl

Highest score

89

POP score

122.22

Scores and tasting notes

89

Tasted blind at Bordeaux Index's Clinet vertical. The Clinet 2002 is very ripe on the nose with macerated black cherries, cassis and a touch of blueberry, still wrapped up in some puppy fat. The palate is full-bodied with chewy tannins on the entry, good acidity though not quite as harmonious as I would have liked. Gritty dry tannins towards the finish with touches of tobacco and mint interlacing the peppery dark fruit. Fine and somehow, sedate. Tasted February 2011.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2011

88

This soft, deep ruby/plum-colored effort exhibits notions of herbs, cassis, cherries, and flowers. While medium-bodied, harmonious, and well-made, it lacks the power and concentration of Clinet’s top vintages. Consume it over the next decade.

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 28 April 2005

Vintage performance