2004 Pape-Clément Pessac-Léognan Pape Clément, Bordeaux (1,5l)

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - 2004 Pape-Clément Pessac-Léognan, Pape Clément

Zealously intent on improving on what he has already accomplished, proprietor Bernard Magrez continues to fashion one of Pessac-Leognan’s most impeccably made wines. In addition to a second wine (Le Clementine), Magrez has introduced a third wine. The blend for the grand vin, 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot from a vineyard located three miles south of Haut-Brion, was cropped at a modest 38 hectoliters per hectare in the bountiful 2004 vintage. Over 200 people worked the triage tables sorting out unripe and damaged fruit. Magrez was one of the last to harvest in the Pessac-Leognan region, harvesting his Merlot between September 30 and October 4, and his Cabernet Sauvignon between October 13 - 22. The most concentrated wine of Graves, Pape-Clement may be as profound as the first-growth, Haut-Brion. The deep ruby/purple-colored 2004 exhibits a fragrant bouquet of flowers, camphor, earth, and red as well as black fruits. Medium-bodied, surprisingly textured and rich, with decent acidity, a long finish, and moderate but sweet tannin, it is an exceptionally successful wine. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2020+ - Robert Parker, April 2005