Chateau Pape Clement: Bordeaux & It’s Oldest Grand Crus!
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Chateau Pape Clement: Bordeaux & It’s Oldest Grand Crus!
Chateau Pape Clement is rich in the history of Bordeaux and the history of France. But could they be one of the oldest Cru?
Chateau Pape Clement is indeed one of the oldest grand crus in Bordeaux, located on one of the most beautiful estates in Bordeaux.
Revered as one of the oldest Grand Cru in Bordeaux, Chateau Pape Clement made its mark in the history books on several occasions. Located in the Pessac region about outside of Bordeaux, Pape Clement has a long history of wine growing and direct ties to a Pope. In 1254, the first vines were planted. Since then the Chateau has experienced well over 700 harvests. It is rooted in tradition and very much the fabric of Bordeaux.
This illustrious Château and castle’s owner was Raymond Bertrand de Got. Voted in by the cardinals he would become Clement V in 1305. In 1306 he choose his papal residence in Avignon and gifted his Chateau to his brother.
Château Pape Clement sits on 60 hectares of vine and is one of 16 Grand Cru Classes in the Graves region. It’s also part of the Pessac-Léognan Appellation created in 1987. It has been in the capable hands of Bernard Magrez since the 1980’s.
This is luxury in it’s prime. Elegant, historic abode in a world-class destination Pape Clement is luxury at its finest. The service and appointments are first class. It houses five stunning suites. There is an ever so slight nuance of sandalwood that follows you through the castle. Inside there are writings from popes careful contained. Art lines the walls in every room. From modern pieces to historical pieces, the history of this Chateau is everywhere. The winery is next to landscaped gardens and you may even see their draft horses working the land.
A chapel holds bottles of wine aging undisturbed in peace underneath the Chateau. This private viewing area is a treasure trove of magnificent bottles long hidden away. All guests have access to a rooftop viewing deck with sweeping views of the vineyards and sunrise. Not to mention the outstanding breakfasts fit for a king or a pope.
I was on the heels of En Primeur 2018
when I entered Pape Clement for my weekend visit. En Primeur is a wine event devoted to the early release of wines recently bottled. In this case the 2018 vintage. This is an opportunity for those in the wine trade to taste vintage well before release.
One of the experiences offered here is a tasting & tour of the winery and the grounds. The walking tour includes several highlights of its history and a tour of Pape Clement’s winery. Our guide was not only well versed in the history of this magnificent estate but entertaining as well. The tour segued directly into the tasting experience.
The tasting experience was a unique one. The first part of the tasting at Pape Clement is pretty standard. You sip a few whites, reds and perhaps a rosé. Listen to the tasting guide share notes and ask questions of the group. The second part was a game-changer. Black glasses placed before us, this was going to be a blind tasting. Not only that but with music. It was a true sensory experience. The results? Surprising! Four different types of music and each with a different impact on the tasting. A profound impact. Kudos Pape Clement!
As the experience wrapped up, I was almost reluctant to go. But then I remembered I was in a stunning suite on the property and happy to get back to my temporary home.
Want to visit more Chateau in Bordeaux?
If you would like to visit extraordinary, world-class destinations like Pape Clement contact Wine Paths Travel
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Chateau Bellefont-Belcier
Today Chinese investment has a major stake in Bordeaux St. Emilion appellation. With over 160 estates in the region owned by Chinese. Peter Kwok (head of CITIC and based in Hong Kong) is part of this influx of Chinese investors having made investments in 8 estates in the past 24 years. Chateau Bellefont-Belcier is the crown jewel, marking a prized piece of French wine heritage.
Founded by Count Belcier in the late 18th century, from a powerful Bordeaux family, the estate has all the trappings of a Grand Cru destination. Well-heeled neighbors and an indisputable pedigree in history. The vineyards are surrounded with epic neighbors including Château Pavie, Château Larcis-Ducasse and Château Tertre Roteboeuf. The south facing hillside where their grapes are grown consists of a limestone plateau, clay and limestone slopes and plots located at the foot of the hill.
For the purposes of this post I tasted three vintages by Chateau Bellefont-Belcier. Two under the previous owner prior to Kwock, and the 2018 under the management and ownership of Peter Kwock.
The 2016 was a solid presentation. 65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. 80% new barrels. Bright and bold black cherry, floral notes intertwined with anise and forest floor. Lovely expression.
For the 2017, sadly there was TCA in this. It doesn’t say anything about the vintage. I wasn’t able to taste.
The 2018 was the absolute hero of this vertical. 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. It sets the precedent for Peter Kwock’s vintages and what to expect in the future. The nose is swoon worthy. Decadent floral notes, roses, violets and spice, along with concentrated black fruit compote of blackberry and plum. The tannins are there, but as part of the ensemble adding the distinct aspect of unmistakable elegance and polish. Age worthy, delicious to enjoy now and what a treat. Bravo~!
#TheWineSiren #KellyMitchell
Learn more: vignoblesk.com
2020 Stoller Pinot Noir Rosé
Well crafted Rosé, with thought, intent and expertise behind it creates a medley of sensations with memorable taste as its hallmark. This effort executed by the sensational winemaking team at Stoller Estate, led by 17 year vet, winemaker & VP of winemaking, Melissa Burr.
The Stoller Estate is one of the first Oregon wineries I had the pleasure of visiting. To this day, that experience leads when I think of Oregonian wine. The vineyards located are the largest adjacent single plot of 225 acres under vine. These cool climate experts have 108 sections with 10 different varieties planted with 158 acres of Pinot Noir.
It makes sense that this beautiful bottle of Rosé is part of that very block of Pinot Noir. Whole cluster ferment in steel tanks lends a compelling dimension to this fragrant example of well made Rosé. Discover the elegant aromatics of a field of warm strawberries and nectarine. Memorable notes of the juice of luscious watermelon, and the crispness of citrus with a satisfyingly long finish.
Pairings…. This wine compliments everything. I had it with margarita pizza… But it tastes great alone and with almost everything you can put in front of it. Decadently versatile!
$28
At Stollerwine.com
#Sample #TheWineSiren #NapaValley
Provence…. For all of its delights, AIX-en-Provence is a destination to be tasted. Both visually and spiritually. Quiet, peaceful. A simple tranquility penetrating your soul. Like the Mistral, once in your memory, on your lips, the essence of Provence never leaves you. It’s languid state always a backdrop for thoughts of AIX .
~ The Wine Siren
The floral scents of this rose are a pristine expression of Provence Rose. A blend of Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault with the aromatics of florals, red berries, highlights the distinct freshness & minerality. The power of passion behind it, the beauty and elegance behind it make it a pleasure to sip, share and enjoy.
Grown at one of the highest elevations in the AOP Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence appellation, 420 meters above the sea at Mason Saint AIX. The color is distinct. This salmon hued beauty is always a treat year round.
For me, this wine is part of my summer. But it is also a part of my life. Low alcohol, easy sipping, perfect for entertaining, as an aperitif and enjoying with friends. It makes every enjoyable experience that much better. Do you AIX?
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When your breathless with excitement over summer fun, step up your wine game with a high quality luscious example of Rosé of Pinot Noir from Russian River Valley.
@sonomacutrer got off the ground in 1973 when visionary wine producer Brice Cutrer Jones, a decorated Vietnam combat fighter pilot determined he could successfully grow Chardonnay in the Russian River Valley.
Today, Mick Roeter carries the torch as Director of Winemaking.
On my lips. This expressive and voluptuous Award Winning Rosé of Pinot Noir. Not one you would dare toss an ice cube in but rather savor ever drop warm or cold. Fresh and vibrant, mouthwatering strawberry, succulent blood orange, zesty lemon all together with a long and bright finish.
Your summer is absolutely not complete with several bottles of this chilled and within reach.
After all. You deserve top Rosé don’t you?
#Sample #TheWineSiren #KellyMitchell #Wine
Eat Italian!
I loved getting back to a #NapaValley favorite. The delightful @dongiovanni_ristorante . Which I highly recommend. It’s divine to sit out under the umbrellas and next to the vineyards.
#2 perfect prepared halibut which is in season right now and not always on the menu. Pan seared to perfection and served with lightly sautéed greens.
Other dishes that are must tastes:
Mandili paper thin Handkerchief pasta tossed with Genoese basil (the real deal).
The octopus and arugula salad!
The lemon cream ravioli with bellwether ricotta. Breathtaking!
Best possible pairing with the halibut
#3 And the stage of the grapes in Napa Valley this week. Green jewels!
#4 the ever delicious @umanironchi Abruzzo VELLODORO
Terre di Chieti Pecorino IGT 100% Pecorino. Enchanting floral notes, citrus, honeysuckle perfect touch of sapidity. $16 worth every luscious penny!
#TheWineSiren #KellyMitchell #Wine
Super excited to delve into seven sips of Tuscany. But before I do I’d love to learn more about your favorite Tuscan experiences.
Whether it’s wine, destination, an experience, town or memory.
My favorite Tuscan experience was my glorious stay at @castellobanfi_wineresort .
#TheWineSiren #KellyMitchell
#Wine
Kelly Mitchell
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- Kelly Mitchell
- 1370 Trancas Street #209
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the imagination of many.
This also makes it possible for you to continue to age for a huge amount of time in your own cellar. A delicious benefit. Preferring a longer time on the lees, and still longer (8-15 years) for the vintage and non-vintage champagnes. They have nearly seven years of stock in the two cellars, one in Aÿ and one in Epernay.
