Clerc Milon 2016

robert_parker94

Reviewed by: Neal Martin

The 2016 Clerc Milon is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot and 1% Carmenere (the latter vinification intégrale, so that it includes 50% of the stems, and Philippe Dhalluin said he was pleased with the results). It has a very pure bouquet, a mixture of red and black fruit, a touch of cedar and ash in the background. It takes time to really unfold in the glass. The palate is adorable: svelte tannin, beautifully pitched acidity, great depth with a silky smooth finish that just caresses the mouth. There is a little tightness here compared to the more expressive 2016 d'Armailhac, but I have no doubt that it will turn into a top-flight Clerc-Milon.

vinous93

Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni

The 2016 Clerc Milon is striking. Here, the interplay of dense fruit and supporting structure make for a wonderfully complete and expressive wine. Dark blue stone fruit, licorice, lavender, spice and menthol are all beautifully delineated in the glass. The aromatic and structure of both Cabernets come through with notable energy and precision. The 2016 has enough density and pedigree to drink well for many years to come.

vinous93

Reviewed by: Neal Martin

The 2016 Clerc-Milon has a crisp, graphite-infused bouquet of well-defined black fruit, hints of peony and iris petals showing underneath. The classic palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, well-judged acidity and just the right amount of austerity toward a finish that has a bitter edge. Excellent (and less "aloof" than I found 12 months earlier). Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting.

vinous93

Reviewed by: Neal Martin

The 2016 Clerc-Milon has a tightly knit bouquet of blackberry, raspberry and light floral scents, very similar to its sibling, d’Armailhac. The palate is medium-bodied with ripe tannin. Initially it displays crisp acidity and feels quite fleshy, but it firms up and finishes persistent but linear and a little aloof. I personally find that appealing, and I suspect this Pauillac will blossom after several years in bottle.

robert_parker94

Reviewed by: Lisa Perrotti-Brown

The Cabernet Franc was fantastic this year, so it was all used in the grand vin. The final blend is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot and 1% Carménère. Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Clerc Milon leaps from the glass with beautiful scents of chocolate-covered cherries, plum preserves and crushed blackcurrants with suggestions of lilacs, cardamom, underbrush and unsmoked cigars. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a firm frame of finely grained tannins and seamless freshness lifting the perfumed fruit to a nice long finish.

vinous93

Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni

The 2016 Clerc Milon has more fruit on the nose than d'Armailhac, with blackberry, raspberry and cedar, just a touch of leather coming through with time. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, not the most powerful Pauillac, but well balanced with a grainy texture. A touch of cracked black pepper and tobacco towards the classically-styled finish. Old school in a good way. Tasted blind at the Southwold 10-Year-On tasting.

james_suckling94

Reviewed by: James Suckling

Refined and ultra-fine with a linear and polished character. Full-bodied, yet tight and racy. A classy and sophisticated young wine.

james_suckling96

Reviewed by: James Suckling

Hot crushed stones and dark berries jump out of the glass. Full body, very dense fruit and powerful tannins, yet it remains agile and bright with beauty and energy. So muscular and toned. Truly outstanding Clerc for the future. Unwavering nature to this. Try after 2024.