2022 Chateau Clerc-Milon Pauillac

Situated in the prestigious Pauillac appellation, this estate has seen centuries of change, but under the guidance of the Rothschild family, it has blossomed into one of the most intriguing wines from Bordeaux.

It all began in the 1800s, when the vineyard was part of a larger estate owned by Jean-Baptiste Clerc. Over the years, the property was divided, sold, and nearly forgotten. By the time the Rothschild family purchased the estate in 1970, it had dwindled to just a few hectares of vines in desperate need of attention. But Baron Philippe de Rothschild had an eye for potential and quickly set about restoring Clerc Milon to its former glory.

Caroline Artaud leads Chateau Clerc Milon, supported by vineyard manager Richard Martin and cellar master Frédéric Faure. Together, they craft distinctive wines while embracing innovation and sustainability. Managed by Baron Philippe de Rothschild SA, alongside Chateau Mouton Rothschild and Chateau d’Armailhac, the estates benefit from the expertise of Philippe Sereys de Rothschild, Ariane Khaida, and Jean-Emmanuel Danjoy. Clerc Milon focuses on reducing treatments and promoting biodiversity to enhance the vineyard and protect the environment.

Today, Clerc Milon is a beautiful fusion of tradition and modern winemaking. The Rothschilds poured their energy into rebuilding the estate, from replanting vines to creating a gravity-fed vat house. They’ve even embraced cutting-edge technology, using vineyard robots to help tend the grapes with precision and care.

One thing that makes Clerc Milon truly stand out is its playful yet elegant character. The label, featuring a pair of dancing clowns crafted from precious stones, hints at the wine’s lively spirit. This whimsical design, created by a 16th-century German goldsmith, perfectly complements the vibrant flavours within the bottle.

As for the wine itself, the 2020 vintage is a classic Pauillac – bold, structured, and packed with layers of dark fruit, cassis, and a touch of earthy tobacco. It’s a wine that can age beautifully, but it’s also incredibly tempting to open now and enjoy its youthful vibrancy.

What’s remarkable about Clerc Milon is its commitment to sustainability. The estate is powered by solar energy, and the new winemaking facilities have been designed with the environment in mind, ensuring that the wine is as sustainable as it is delicious.

In a region known for its big names, Chateau Clerc Milon offers something a little different – a wine that tells a story of revival, passion, and innovation. It’s a perfect choice for anyone who loves Bordeaux but craves something with a unique twist.

Aging: 18 months in French oak barrels (55% new), enhancing depth and complexity while preserving the wine’s lively, pure fruit.