Chateau Clinet

Nestled in the middle of the illustrious Pomerol region of Bordeaux, Chateau Clinet shares the same praiseworthy terroir with world-renowned producers like Petrus, Chateau Lafleur, and Chateau Le Pin. The best Chateaux from this appellation craft are extremely fine, velvety, and rich Merlot-based wines, and Chateau Clinet is no exception. The phenomenal winemaking team at Clinet (which includes the impressive Michel Rolland) has been relentless in their pursuit to make wine that challenges even the greatest Pomerol producers.

Clinet's Crown Jewel

What’s the secret to Chateau Clinet’s excellence? Well, they’re one of the oldest estates in this Right Bank appellation with vines that were planted over 230 years ago. The heart and soul of Clinet is the parcel of Merlot called "La Grand Vigne." Representing an impressive 20% of the total vineyard, these vines produce the most esteemed and concentrated grapes that add depth and complexity to Clinet's Grand Vin. Easily the finest terroir on the property, this vineyard is the reason why Clinet has been mesmerizing wine lovers for centuries.

Château Clinet sits on the Pomerol Plateau's highest point, surrounded by esteemed neighbors like Château L'Eglise Clinet, Château Clos L'Eglise, Château Feytit-Clinet, and Château Trotanoy. The complex terroir comprises gravel, clay, and iron-rich sandy soils, creating a nuanced environment that influences the wine's character. A 6 minute bike ride to Chateau Petrus

Three main parcels dominate the vineyard: La Grand Vigne with old vines in deep clay, Les Argilles with deep clay, and Le Plateau with gravel-rich soil. These parcels contribute to the rich tapestry of flavors found in Château Clinet wines. In 2010 and 2012, Ronan Laborde expanded the estate, integrating new vines into Château Clinet's production, with 50% allocated to the flagship wine and the remainder to the second wine, Fleur de Clinet.

History & Ownership

Château Clinet, with roots dating back to 1785, stands as a historic gem in Pomerol. Passed down through illustrious families like the Constants and Arnauds, who also owned Château Petrus, it found stability with the Audy family in 1900. The late 1970s saw a turning point with the arrival of Jean Michel Arcaute, aiming to restore Château Clinet to its 19th-century glory. Arcaute revolutionized vineyard management, introducing practices like leaf thinning and hand-picking, steering away from machine harvesting, and reducing Cabernet Sauvignon plantings. The bold declassification of the 1984 crop underscored their commitment to excellence.

Gan insurance took ownership in 1991, and tragedy struck with Arcaute's untimely death in 2001. The torch then passed to Jean-Louis Laborde in 1998, and the estate witnessed a new era under his son, Ronan Laborde, in 2004. Ronan Laborde's tenure ushered in impactful changes, including replanting, reduced new French oak barrels, increased yields, and enhanced vine density. Château Clinet not only regained its stature but reached new heights under his leadership.

In 2022, Château Clinet expanded further with the acquisition of Château Lecuyer, showcasing a commitment to growth. Ronan introduced the accessible Ronan by Clinet brand, emphasizing quality wines for a broader audience.

Château Clinet's trajectory since the Laborde family's acquisition has been remarkable, with standout vintages like the acclaimed 2009 and 2010, solidifying its position among the top wines in Pomerol. As the estate evolves, it remains a beacon of tradition, innovation, and enduring quality in the world of fine Bordeaux wines.

Terroir & Vineyard

Château Clinet's 11.5-hectare vineyard, situated in the esteemed Pomerol appellation, is a tapestry of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a touch of Cabernet Franc. Since 2000, the percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon has increased from 10% to 25%, showcasing a strategic shift in grape varietals.

Divided into 21 parcels across varying slopes and hills, the vineyard reaches elevations of up to 35 meters. The vineyard's heart lies in "La Grand Vigne," a special parcel close to the church. Planted in 1934, this parcel houses some of the oldest vines in Pomerol, contributing nearly 20% to Château Clinet's vines. Special care is given to this delicate section, employing horses for soil work due to the vines' age, delicacy, and tight spacing. These vines are meticulously tended, utilizing horse plowing for cultivation.

A Gem in Pomerol's Heart

Chateau Clinet produces rich, sensuous, and powerful wines that have incredible aging potential. Prices of Chateau Clinet have remained low even with the massive jump in quality the estate experienced in the early 19th Century. This jump in quality was not by chance since Clinet is located on one of Pomerol’s highest plateaus. The estate also has more gravel in their vineyards mirroring those of Lafleur and Petrus. A winery to keep an eye on, bottles of Chateau Clinet will not disappoint.

Timeless Allure Of Pomerol

Château Clinet in Pomerol stands as a shining example of Bordeaux's winemaking prowess, producing wines that capture the essence of the region's terroir. Whether enjoyed in their youth or savored after years of careful aging, the wines of Château Clinet are a testament to the timeless allure of Pomerol.

Written by: Craig Headding and Arabella Maislinger