Château Clarke 2015

The Château Clarke estate is in the southern part of the Médoc within the Listrac-Médoc appellation. Its inland location is far from the Gironde estuary in the middle of the limestone plateau. The property has a private, protected setting.

A distinctive feature of the estate's clay-limestone soil is its remarkable drought resistance. The nearness of the Atlantic Ocean gives it a cool freshness that is echoed in the wine's bright bouquet. The terroir is very well suited to growing merlot grapes in a region where cabernet sauvignon is traditionally king. Thus Château Clarke is typical of the Médoc, but in an entirely original way.

Appearance: Deep, dense ruby colour with bright garnet highlights, reflecting beautiful ripeness and careful ageing.

Nose: Expressive and refined bouquet dominated by ripe black fruits (blackcurrant, blackberry, black cherry) and gentle spice notes. As it opens, hints of blond tobacco, cedar and lightly toasted vanilla emerge — hallmarks of a great Médoc vintage.

Palate: Broad and velvety on entry, with fine, perfectly integrated tannins supported by a fresh backbone that balances the richness of the fruit. The texture is silky and full, with precise mid-palate definition and a long, elegant finish tinged with graphite and dark chocolate.

Food Pairing: Excellent with roast beef fillet, rack of lamb, porcini risotto or aged hard cheeses.

Serving Temperature: Serve between 17 °C and 18 °C, after one hour of decanting.