Jeb Dunnuck – 98 points
As to the Grand Vin 2019 Château Pape Clement, it reveals a dense purple hue to go with stunning aromatics of crème de cassis, graphite, lead pencil shavings, scorched earth, and tobacco. Beautifully balanced, with flawless tannins, this full-bodied Pessac has that rare mix of elegance and power, a great mid-palate, and again, perfect balance. It’s one of the gems of the vintage and has some accessibility today given its purity and balance, yet deserves 4-5 years of bottle age and will cruise for 20-25 years or more in cold cellars. The blend is equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, brought up in two-thirds new French oak. Apr/2022)—Jeb Dunnuck
James Suckling – 97 points
Crushed-stone and berry aromas with some blackberry and black-tea character. Just a touch of smokiness. Sweet fruit, too. This is so refined, subtle, and beautiful for Pape with full body, ultra-fine tannins and a succulent finish. The center-palate is dense and complete. Goes on for minutes. So subtle and refined, focused and classy. Try after 2026. Feb/2022 —jamessuckling.com
Vinous – 97 points
The 2019 Pape Clément is just as impressive as it was en primeur. It shows all of the textural richness that is so typical of Bernard Magrez’s wines, but with an extra kick of freshness that provides energy as well as a sense of proportion. A wine of stature, the 2019 is so classy. Succulent black cherry, plum, mocha, new leather and licorice are all beautifully delineated. But more than anything else, I find the wine’s energy really impressive. This is a fabulous vintage for Pape Clément. Tasted two times.
Jan/2022) —Antonio Galloni
Description
Begin an extraordinary sensory adventure with the mesmerizing 2019 Château Pape Clément. This remarkable vintage is a harmonious symphony of flavors, showcasing the artistry and expertise of one of Bordeaux’s most revered wineries.
As you uncork the bottle, an enchanting bouquet of ripe black fruits, intertwined with hints of cedar and delicate spices, dances elegantly from the glass. With each sip, your palate is greeted by a velvety tapestry of luscious blackberries, plums, and currants, accompanied by subtle nuances of vanilla and tobacco. The wine’s silky tannins add a luxurious touch, while its vibrant acidity imparts a refreshing liveliness, resulting in a beautifully balanced composition.
Crafted from a meticulous selection of grapes, nurtured by Bordeaux’s unique terroir, the 2019 Château Pape Clément Bordeaux Red exemplifies the pinnacle of wine making excellence. The vintage reflects the sun-kissed warmth of the region, imbuing the wine with a depth and richness that captivate the senses.
This limited-edition release is a testament to the estate’s unwavering commitment to quality and tradition. It is a wine that demands attention, destined to age gracefully for years to come, evolving and revealing new dimensions of complexity with each passing season.
Whether shared during a special celebration, a romantic evening, or a quiet moment of indulgence, the 2019 Château Pape Clément promises an unforgettable wine experience. Immerse yourself in its captivating allure, and let the symphony of flavors transport you to the enchanting world of Bordeaux’s finest wines. Secure your bottles today and elevate your wine collection to new heights. Cheers to the extraordinary pleasures that await!
Château Pape Clément: A Timeless Legacy of Excellence in Bordeaux
For over eight centuries, Château Pape Clément has graced the picturesque vineyards of Bordeaux, leaving an indelible mark on the region’s winemaking heritage. Since its establishment in the 13th century, this esteemed winery has upheld a tradition of unparalleled quality, captivating the palates of wine enthusiasts worldwide. From its storied beginnings to its unwavering commitment to innovation, Château Pape Clément continues to redefine the art of winemaking, making it a true gem of Bordeaux.
Steeped in History:
The origins of Château Pape Clément can be traced back to the 13th century when it was acquired by Bertrand de Goth, who later ascended to become Pope Clément V. It was during his papacy that the château acquired its prestigious name, forever intertwining its legacy with that of the papal office.
Throughout the centuries, Château Pape Clément weathered the storms of history, surviving wars and changing hands amongst prominent families. Each era left an indelible mark, contributing to the estate’s rich tapestry of heritage. Today, visitors can marvel at the ancient stone walls, the elegant architecture, and the timeless beauty that radiates from every corner of the estate.
Unrivaled Terroir:
Nestled within Bordeaux’s acclaimed Pessac-Léognan, Château Pape Clément benefits from the unique combination of soil, climate, and geographical features that make the region a winemaking paradise. Spanning over 60 hectares of gravelly soil, the vineyards provide an ideal environment for nurturing the noble grape varieties of Bordeaux.
The estate’s vineyards flourish under the maritime climate of Bordeaux, with the nearby Garonne River acting as a moderating influence on temperatures. This harmonious union of soil and climate allows Château Pape Clément to produce wines that faithfully reflect their terroir, exhibiting the nuanced flavors, elegant structure, and age-worthy characteristics that Bordeaux is renowned for.
Pioneers of Excellence:
Château Pape Clément blends tradition and innovation, crafting wines that seamlessly bridge the gap between the past and the present. Guided by centuries-old techniques and enhanced by cutting-edge technology, the winemaking team ensures that each vintage upholds the estate’s commitment to excellence.
From meticulous vineyard management to hand harvesting and a rigorous selection process, every step of the winemaking journey at Château Pape Clément is driven by an unwavering pursuit of perfection. The wines are aged in oak barrels, adding complexity and allowing them to evolve and develop over time.
The Legacy of Château Pape Clément Wines:
Château Pape Clément wines have garnered international acclaim, consistently ranking among the finest Bordeaux wines. Each bottle encapsulates the spirit of the estate, displaying a harmonious balance of fruit, tannins, and acidity that captivates the senses and delights the palate.
Whether it’s the grandeur of their red wines, dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, or the elegance of their white wines, crafted from Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc, Château Pape Clément’s offerings never fail to captivate wine connoisseurs worldwide. These wines possess an unmatched ability to age gracefully, evolving and gaining complexity over decades.
Conclusion:
In the illustrious landscape of Bordeaux’s wineries, Château Pape Clément shines as a beacon of excellence. With a history dating back over eight centuries, this esteemed estate embodies the essence of Bordeaux’s wine making tradition. Its commitment to quality, innovation, and respect for terroir has solidified its status as one of the region’s most revered wineries.
As you raise a glass of Château Pape Clément wine, you become a part of this timeless legacy, joining a lineage of wine enthusiasts who have been enchanted by the estate’s charm for centuries. Whether you are a seasoned oenophile or a curious novice, Château Pape Clément invites you to embark on a journey through history, terroir, and unparalleled excellence in wine making.
Wine Advocate (WA)
Influential Wine Criticism for Global Wine Lovers
Founded in 1978 by Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate revolutionized the wine industry with its adoption of the 100-point scoring system. It quickly became the most influential source of wine ratings globally, especially for Bordeaux, Rhône, and California wines. Parker’s precise palate and fearless opinions gained him a loyal readership. Today, under the editorial leadership of Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW and a team of regional specialists like Joe Czerwinski and William Kelley, the publication continues to deliver deeply researched, blind-tasted reviews with global reach. It remains subscription-based and independent, with over 30,000 wines reviewed each year.
Wine Spectator (WS)
America’s Leading Wine Magazine and Rating Publication
Wine Spectator has been a staple of the wine world since its founding in 1976 by Bob Morrisey. Purchased shortly after by Marvin R. Shanken, the publication grew into the most widely read wine magazine in the U.S. It is known for its blind tastings, detailed vintage charts, consumer-focused reviews, and accessible scoring system. Its famous “Top 100 Wines” list each year influences buying trends across the industry. With a team of dedicated critics covering nearly every wine-producing region on Earth, Wine Spectator remains a trusted name for both collectors and casual drinkers alike, reaching millions in both print and digital formats.
James Suckling (JS)
Global Critic Known for Rapid Reviews and Bold Ratings
James Suckling spent nearly three decades at Wine Spectator, serving as Senior Editor and European Bureau Chief, before launching his own platform in 2010. Renowned for his fast-paced review style, Suckling and his team rate more than 25,000 wines annually from all over the world — with a strong focus on Italy, Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Chile. His reviews are direct and generous, often accompanied by tasting videos and interviews with winemakers. Suckling also hosts large-scale tasting events around the globe and maintains strong influence on luxury wine buying in Asia, particularly Hong Kong and China.
Wine Enthusiast (WE)
Wine Ratings, Lifestyle, and Buying Guide
Since 1979, Wine Enthusiast has published wine reviews, buying guides, and lifestyle content for both entry-level drinkers and experienced collectors. The magazine evaluates thousands of wines annually using a 100-point scale and offers detailed, easy-to-understand tasting notes. Its team includes regional editors specializing in North America, Europe, and the Southern Hemisphere. Wine Enthusiast also provides wine accessories and hosts wine events. It’s known for its strong online presence and educational tone, making it one of the most accessible and widely read wine publications in the United States.
The Wine Independent (TWI)
Subscription-Based, Critically-Researched Wine Analysis
Founded in 2021 by former Wine Advocate editor-in-chief Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW and wine photographer Johan Berglund, The Wine Independent emphasizes transparency, independence, and long-form, in-depth critical reviews. It operates on a subscription-only model and maintains no advertising relationships, ensuring its opinions are entirely editorial and not influenced by wineries or sponsors. Their reviews, primarily focused on Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Champagne, feature detailed tasting notes and region-specific insights, and the site aims to be a trusted source for high-end collectors and trade professionals.
Burghound (BH)
Burgundy Expertise and Global Pinot Noir Specialist
Allen Meadows launched Burghound.com in 2001 after a successful career in finance and years of deep study into the wines of Burgundy. His quarterly reports are considered the gold standard for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, especially from France and Oregon. Burghound is highly regarded for its vintage retrospectives, producer profiles, and strict scoring discipline. Meadows is known for revisiting wines across vintages to track aging and performance, providing valuable data for serious collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine (CGCW)
Decades of California-Centric Ratings and Commentary
Founded in 1974 by Charles Olken, the Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine was one of the first American wine publications dedicated exclusively to California wines. It employs a star-based rating system rather than numerical scores, offering short, consumer-friendly reviews with strong editorial consistency. It reviews wines monthly and is particularly noted for its fair treatment of smaller wineries, as well as for educational columns that provide insight into varietals, regions, and vintage perspectives.
Wine & Spirits (W&S)
Restaurant Trends, Trade Tastings, and Thoughtful Reviews
Wine & Spirits Magazine has been publishing since 1982 and is known for its blind tasting panels, sustainable producer features, and restaurant-focused wine trends. The magazine’s annual Restaurant Poll surveys top U.S. restaurants for their bestselling wines, offering unique insight into trade buying patterns. It covers both domestic and international regions with tasting panels led by respected critics, and places a strong emphasis on balanced, food-friendly wines. The publication is widely read by industry professionals, sommeliers, and wine educators.
The Tasting Panel (TP)
Trade-Oriented Publication Blending Ratings with Wine Business Insight
The Tasting Panel is a leading beverage trade magazine that reviews wine, spirits, and beer with an eye toward the business side of the industry. Edited by Meridith May, the magazine blends product ratings with distributor insights, marketing trends, and interviews with industry leaders. Its wine scores often appear in distributor portfolios and retail shelf talkers. Known for a broad palate and market-savvy commentary, The Tasting Panel holds a unique position between reviewer and trade magazine.
Vinous (VN)
Modern Multimedia Wine Criticism with a Global Reach
Vinous was launched in 2013 by Antonio Galloni, a former lead critic at The Wine Advocate. The platform combines written reviews, video content, interactive maps, and tasting notes across a global array of regions, from Barolo to California. Vinous has absorbed other major outlets like Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar, expanding its reach and credibility. With contributors like Eric Guido, Josh Raynolds, and Neal Martin, Vinous is widely respected by collectors and industry professionals.
Stephen Tanzer (ST)
Veteran Critic Known for Precise, Classic Palate
Stephen Tanzer was the publisher of the International Wine Cellar for nearly 25 years before merging with Vinous in 2014. Known for his conservative scoring style and deep knowledge of Bordeaux, Burgundy, and U.S. wines, Tanzer remains a respected contributor at Vinous. His legacy includes pioneering English-language coverage of less-celebrated wine regions and maintaining credibility with both trade professionals and collectors. Tanzer’s tasting notes are concise, technical, and valued for their consistency.
Jancis Robinson (JR)
Master of Wine and One of the Most Respected Critics Worldwide
Jancis Robinson MW is a globally recognized wine critic, journalist, and author based in the UK. She was the first person outside the wine trade to earn the Master of Wine title in 1984. Her Oxford Companion to Wine and World Atlas of Wine (co-authored with Hugh Johnson) are essential references in the industry. Robinson serves as wine advisor to the British royal cellar and is known for her scholarly yet accessible reviews and educational content at JancisRobinson.com.
Jeb Dunnuck (JD)
Former Aerospace Engineer Turned Rhône and U.S. Wine Authority
Jeb Dunnuck began his wine career writing a blog focused on the wines of the Rhône Valley and Southern France. He later joined The Wine Advocate before founding JebDunnuck.com in 2017. His publication focuses heavily on U.S. regions such as California and Washington, as well as France’s Rhône and Bordeaux. Known for a generous palate and bold tasting language, Dunnuck provides hundreds of detailed reviews per release cycle, frequently visiting producers and publishing regional deep-dives.
Decanter Magazine (D)
British Wine Authority Blending Criticism and Culture
Founded in 1975, Decanter is the UK’s oldest consumer wine publication. It has built a global reputation for thoughtful commentary, extensive blind tastings, and the annual Decanter World Wine Awards, one of the largest and most respected wine competitions. With contributors including Steven Spurrier, Jane Anson, and Andrew Jefford, Decanter provides wine education, interviews, travel features, and expert reviews. Its editorial voice reflects a balance of Old World tradition and New World curiosity.
Jane Anson (JA)
Bordeaux Specialist and Authoritative Wine Writer
Jane Anson spent nearly 20 years writing for Decanter Magazine before launching her own subscription-based platform, Inside Bordeaux. She is one of the most respected contemporary voices on Bordeaux, having authored “Inside Bordeaux” — a highly praised and scholarly reference work. Anson is noted for her deep engagement with vineyard practices, producer interviews, and regional changes. She holds a diploma from the Bordeaux Wine School and continues to publish detailed tasting reports and essays for…
Tasting Book ~ (TB)
Global Collector-Sourced Ratings and Reviews
The Tasting Book is an international digital platform that compiles wine reviews from professional critics, sommeliers, collectors, and enthusiasts around the world. Launched in Finland, it has grown to feature tens of thousands of wines with reviews from multiple perspectives. Each entry aggregates community feedback alongside professional commentary. Tasting Book is especially valued for its crowd-sourced balance and the ability to compare opinions across tasters. It is widely used by wine professionals, collectors, and auction houses.
