Le Clémentin de Pape Clément 2020

The freshness and aromatic expression of a Pessac-Léognan Second White Wine

The estate

Located at the gates of Bordeaux, Château Pape Clément is one of the oldest wine-growing properties in the region, with a first harvest that took place in 1252. Château Pape Clément owes its name to Pope Clement V, who managed the vineyard before giving it to the Archbishop of Bordeaux. The vineyard is therefore sometimes nicknamed "Pope Clement's Vines". In 1983, Bernard Magrez, a tireless builder and composer of rare wines, purchased the property. Bernard Magrez, who now owns 4 Grands Crus Classés in Bordeaux, invested all of his energy and passion, elevating Château Pape Clément to the highest level of Bordeaux Grands Crus. In 2009, Château Pape Clément was rewarded for its quality by a 100/100 score from American critic Robert Parker.

The vineyard

Château Pape Clément is a Pessac-Léognan white wine that stems from an 18-hectare vineyard. The vines are 22 years old on average and are planted on Pyrenean clay gravel soils. The vineyard is managed on a micro-plot basis. The Château Pape Clément estate is certified for High Environmental Value 3, SME and even holds a Bee-Friendly certification.

The vintage

A particularly rainy autumn preceded a mild winter, punctuated by six nights with sub-zero temperatures. Spring began with hot, dry conditions, particularly during the flowering period, and was marked by heavy rainfall. The summer season is dry and hot.

Vinification and ageing

Following the filling of the fully manual pneumatic press, whole-berry pressing was carried out. The juice was run off from the press into barrels by gravity. Settling and vinification is carried in French oak barrels and cement egg-shaped vats, along with ageing, which took place with regular stirring of the lees.

The blend

Clémentin de Pape Clément 2020 white wine comprises a blend of Sauvignon Blanc (78%), Semillon (20%), Sauvignon Gris (1%) and Muscadelle (1%).