2016 Chateau Pape Clement Pessac Leognan Grand Cru Classe

Vinous 94

The 2016 Pape Clément is drinking very well and benefits from less new oak (around 60%). It has a vibrant and well-defined bouquet with black plum, cedar and light black olive notes, the latter becoming more prominent with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, fine tannins and a little graphite towards the briny finish. I would keep this in the cellar for another three or four years. [Neal Martin, 31/05/2026]

Anticipated maturity: 2030-2060

Robert Parker 96

Blended of 60% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc, the 2016 Pape Clement has a deep garnet-purple color and quite a serious, earthy nose with truffles, tilled soil, underbrush and smoked meats over a cassis, baked plums and redcurrants core plus a touch of lavender. Medium to full-bodied, firm and grainy, the palate is built like a brick house, supporting muscular black fruit and earthy notions and finishing very long and mineral laced. [Lisa Perrotti-Brown, 30/11/2018]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2042