La Petite Eglise (by Chateau L'Eglise Clinet), Pomerol, Bordeaux, 2018

Modest but sure of its presence, L'Eglise Clinet lies at one of the highest points upon the renowned plateau at the heart of Pomerol and the simple facade of its farmhouse-like chateau is at odds with the grandeur of the wines. It is home to one of the oldest vineyards in the appellation, with traces of the vineyard's existence dating back to 1595. This vineyard is equally famed for offering wine with an incomparable character and quality.

Every grape that enters the winery passes a rigorous selection process before being allowed to make its way into the next vintage of L'Eglise Clinet. After initial selection on arrival, a high-speed precision Airtech sorting machine plus a further stage of delicate sorting by hand ensure that only the best grapes arrive into the vats.

The wines are aged for an average of 16 months in 100% new French oak barrels, and the type of barrel used to age each plot is selected carefully to correspond to the requirements of the grape. We house a selection of barrels from different coopers, toasted differently and of different sizes that enable us to balance the exact characteristics required to age each plot to perfection.

5.5 hectares • 85% Merlot • 14% Cabernet Franc and 1% Malbec • Average age of vines 45 years

The "second wine" from Denis Durantou is a serious Pomerol in its own right, but at a fraction of the price. 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. Only 400 cases produced, aged in 35% new oak.

James Suckling: 94 / 100

Wine Advocate: 92 / 100

Drink from: 2022 - 2037