Clos L'Eglise

Clos L'Eglise is a leading Right Bank Bordeaux producer crafting wines from the Pomerol AOC. The estate's history dates back to the 18th century, though the modern-day chateau was established in the 19th century. It's small, but mighty: 6-hectare vineyards produce some of the region's finest Merlot and Cabernet Franc, earning Clos L'Eglise a reputation as a hidden gem within Pomerol.

Clos L'Eglise History

Clos L'Eglise was originally formed in the 18th century as part of the larger Chateau Gombaude Guillot. At 14-hectares, the estate was one of the largest in Pomerol at the time. However, in the 19th century, the land was split into two estates: the Rouchut family retained Clos L'Eglise with 5.9 hectares, while the Mauleon family held Chateau L'Eglise Clinet with 8 hectares. Following the split, Clos L'Eglise was informally classified as a Pomerol Grand Cru alongside Chateau Trotanoy, Chateau L'Evangile, Chateau La Conseillante, and Vieux Chateau Certan. 

Despite the estate's storied history, the modern era of Clos L'Eglise did not begin until 1975, when the property was redesigned. Wooden vats were removed in favour of stainless steel, and Cabernet Sauvignon was removed from the vineyard, with higher proportions of Merlot planted.

In 1997, the chateau was elevated to new heights, as Sylvaine Garcin Cathiard purchased the estate for 12 million Euros, a record price in Pomerol at the time. Sylvaine joined her brother, Daniel Cathiard, as one of Bordeaux's most exciting newcomers, with the latter owning Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte.  

Clos L'Eglise Pomerol Terroir

Clos L'Eglise is set on the break in the west side of the Pomerol plateau on clay-gravel soils. The estate borders luminaries like Chateau Le Gay, Chateau Lafleur, and Chateau Latour A Pomerol. Its vines are 35 years old on average and planted at a density of 7,150 vines per acre, making it one of the most densely planted vineyards in Pomerol.

The land is tended to by proprietors Helen Garcin, daughter of Sylvaine Cathiard, and her husband Patrice Leveque. The pair formerly worked alongside Michel Rolland and Alain Raynaud, and have worked with Thomas Duclos since 2015. 

Clos L'Eglise Wine Portfolio

Clos L'Eglise wines are best known for their classic Pomerol opulence and richness, and exciting bouquet of dark berries, graphite, and licorice. Only 2,000 bottles of the Grand Vin are produced each vintage, with overall production totalling 25,000 bottles.

Clos L'Eglise Pomerol 2020

One of the estate's greatest recent releases is the 2000 Clos L'Eglise, rated 99 points by Jeb Dunnuck, who labelled the bottle "a blockbuster of a wine." The final cuvée featured a muscular profile and fleshy fruit core, instantly becoming a standout for Helen Garcin and the Clos L'Eglise team. 

Clos L'Eglise 2000

The 2000 Clos L'Eglise was rated 96 points by Robert Parker, who stated it was "a true star of the vintage." The bottle was heralded as a classic Pomerol, showcasing a brilliant full-bodied profile, complex aromatics, and incredible aging ability. 

Secure Your Bottle of Clos L'Eglise

Clos L'Eglise has established itself as a star of Pomerol thanks to its rich, opulent Merlot-Cabernet Franc blends. With the help of renowned consultants and stellar ownership from Helene Garcin, Clos L'Eglise makes an excellent cellar addition for seasoned Bordeaux collectors. Browse our in-stock selection of Clos L'Eglise wines today.