2018 Le Cleméntin du Pape Clément, Pessac-Léognan

Blackcurrant, pine cone, walnut, crushed gravel and dried flowers on the nose. It’s medium-bodied with firm, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Sleek and refined.

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 Clémentin de Pape Clement strides confidently out of the glass with classic scents of ripe blackcurrants, juicy black plums and cedar chest, plus touches of graphite, bay leaves, unsmoked cigars and espresso. The medium-bodied, elegantly styled palate (13.5% alcohol) has a lot of grace and presence for a second wine, featuring finely grained tannins and seamless freshness to support the bright, black fruit flavors, finishing on a minerally note. (LPB)