The producer
Clinet is one of oldest properties in Pomerol with records of vineyards dating back to 1785. The modern history of the estate starts in the early 1990s, when Clinet was acquired by the Audy family. Jean-Michel Arcaute, married to Clinet owner George Audy’s daughter, ran the estate for many years and was largely responsible for the enormous improvement of both vineyard work and cellar management, and thus greatly improved wine quality. Michel Rolland consulted for a period between 1985 and 2014. In 1998, the estate was acquired by Jean-Louis Laborde, who’s son Ronan Laborde is running the estate today, and who has achieved even higher quality from the land.
Clinet is a small property of only 9 hectares situated on the famous Pomerol plateau. Merlot dominates the vineyards with up to 80% of plantings, with the remainder a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabenet Franc, and the average vine age is 45 years.
The wine
The grape blend for the Clinet’s grand vin varies with fruit ripeness and vintage condition but usually consists of around 80% Merlot with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The average age of the vines is 45 years. fermentation takes place parcel by parcel in temperature controlled stainless steel vats, and is followed by ageing in up to 60% new French oak barrels. Clinet is one of the finest Pomerols available and a wine of enormous concentration, richness and complexity.