2000 Chateau Pape Clement Cru Classe, Pessac-Leognan [Chateau Direct - Late Release], Case of 6 btls

RP96 "This wine stands out as a sensational effort just a few years away from full maturity. A 50/50 blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine displays loads of scorched earth and smoky barbecue scents along with blueberry, black raspberry and black currant. The wine is expansive, has a savory, broad palate and a full-bodied mouthfeel, yet possesses vivid purity and uplift. The tannins are still present, but they are sweet and well-integrated. This wine should hit full maturity in another year or two and last for at least 20 more years." RP Jun 2010

JD96 "While the 2000 Château Pape Clément doesn't match the 2005 or 2010, it's nevertheless a brilliant wine in every way. Fully mature, with incredible aromatics of red and black currants, new saddle leather, smoked tobacco, and that classic Graves scorched earth character, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a lively, elegant mouthfeel, beautifully integrated and resolved tannins, and a lively spine of acidity that keeps it light on its feet and vibrant. There's no upside to additional cellaring, but it probably has another decade of prime drinking and a gradual decline thereafter." JD Mar 2024