Would the Pope need an introduction?

Neither should this, as the second wine of a legend.

Albeit here’s what Robert Parker has to say about Pape Clément’s storied past: “This 13th-century vineyard situated in the suburbs of Pessac is owned by one of Bordeaux’s most interesting visionaries, Bernard Magrez. He has done a remarkable job in turning around this once-moribund property… Kudos to Magrez, who has built an empire based on high quality more than any other characteristic, his flagship estate continues to produce consistently beautiful wines.”

That “once-moribund” part is truly fascinating, as in the past no other phoenix of a Château to rise so high comes to mind, Financial Times recently chronicles it best: “Château Pape Clément could be Bordeaux’s greatest comeback. This historic estate in the Graves region experienced what many experts perceived as a drop in quality in the 1980s, but it has had a resurgence and is now one of Bordeaux’s most highly rated wines.”

Continuing “This recent success might give the false impression that Pape Clément is a newcomer to Bordeaux’s big league, but it is the oldest estate in the region, having first been planted in 1300. This long history is hinted at in the estate’s name. The property, now abutting the suburbs of Bordeaux, was first planted by Pope Clement V when he was the city’s Archbishop and before he became Pope. The estate predates the establishment of the later, more prestigious Médoc region.”

And a vintage like this? Let’s bring Jeb Dunnuck in to add that “the 2015 Château Pape Clément is up at the top of the hierarchy and is a tour de force in Red Bordeaux that should be snatched up by readers.”

Truth be told, it already was “snatched up” when we uncovered a tiny stash of ‘Clémentin’ which is an even smaller production of younger vines’ second wine, cut of the same cloth. A tremendous value given the few remaining bottles of the 99-pointer 2015 Pape Clément will cost you at least 4 to 5 times, while this still “well reflects the top wine” according to Wine Enthusiast.

Nuff said, clean us out!

93 Points, Cellar Selection – Wine Enthusiast

“The second wine of Pape Clément, named after the papal crossed keys, this bottling well reflects the top wine. It has the same ripe, dusty tannins and juicy acidity, rich while structured, and likely will age well over the medium term. It will be a delicious, rich wine as it matures. Drink from 2021.”

92-93 Points – James Suckling

“A firm and silky second wine with blueberry and blackberry aromas and flavors. Full body, bright and fresh. Fine tannins.”