Château L'Eglise Clinet 2021

Château L’Eglise‑Clinet 2021 - Pomerol, Bordeaux, France

A powerful and focused expression of classic Pomerol from one of the appellation’s most esteemed estates, Château L’Eglise-Clinet’s 2021 marries rich dark fruit with structural precision. Aromas of black cherry, blackberry, violet and spice are complemented by hints of tobacco, licorice and wet slate minerality, while the palate shows depth and balance with fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Medium to full-bodied and beautifully layered, this wine reveals both the plush, seductive Merlot fruit and the savoury complexity that makes Pomerol so compelling. It’s poised to evolve gracefully with age, rewarding patience in the cellar. 

The estate is the flagship of the Durantou portfolio, which is one of our favourite Bordeaux families here at KWM. Denis Durantou was one of Bordeaux’s most quietly influential winemakers, best known for elevating estates such as Château L’Eglise-Clinet, Château Montlandrie and Château Les Cruzelles to cult status through precision, restraint and an uncompromising focus on terroir. Renowned for his meticulous vineyard work and understated cellar approach, he championed balance and freshness long before they became fashionable, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to shape Right Bank Bordeaux today. The Durantou organisation is now led by Denis' daughters Noémie and Constance who are carrying the tradition into the future with grace and profound skill.

Grape varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Franc

Style: Dry red, structured Bordeaux

Drink window: 2028–2050+ 

Perfect for: Roast lamb, beef bourguignon, venison, aged cheeses, classic French cuisine

Critic scores:

97–98 points - James Suckling (rich, focused and elegant) 

96 points - Antonio Galloni / Vinous (stellar, balanced and age-worthy) 

96 points - Jane Anson (precise with fine tannins) 

95–97 points - Thomas Parker MW (dense and structured) 

A refined Pomerol with both power and poise - built for long-term enjoyment but seductive even in its youth.