Château Clarke – 2011
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Introduction
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Château Clarke takes its name from the Irish family who bought this estate in 1771. After more than two centuries of wine growing tradition and successive owners, the property was purchased by Baron Edmond de Rothschild in 1973. The vineyard was completely restructured and massive investments were undertaken in order to renovate buildings and improve wine making and storage facilities. With a passion for excellence and the best things in life, the Baron made Clarke a benchmark for the whole region.
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Vineyard Profile
- Appellation: Listrac-Medoc
- Composition: 70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon
- Size: 55 ha (135.9 acres)
- Vine Age: 30 years
- Soil: Limestone and clay
- Density: 7,000 vines/ha
- Training: Natural grass cover, double Guyot
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Vintage Report
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The climate profile of the 2011 is quite similar to that of 2004/2007, especially on the rainfall side. However, the drought early in the season, is the reason of the lower yield obtained that year at the estate, closer to 40hl/Ha.
- Harvest Date(s): Merlot from September 19 to 24; Cabernet Sauvignon from September 26 to 27
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Vinification
- Fermentation: The grapes are put into vats via gravity flow, followed by cold soaking and fermentation in both oak and stainless steel tanks. Moderate extraction adapted to each vat by pumping over and delestage (rack and return).
- Aging: 16 months, 100% in barrels (two-thirds new and one-third second fill)
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Technical Information
- Alcohol: 13.5%
- Optimum Drinking: Up to 20 years; the suggested drinking window is from 2019 to 2031
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Tasting Notes
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Château Clarke 2011 is a beautiful crimson color with a deep purple rim. Both intense and complex, the nose displays fresh fruit aromas (black currant and black cherry) and elegant oak nuances, as well as hints of menthol and liquorice with aeration. The wine starts out round and straightforward and follows with rich, concentrated and velvety tannic texture along with beautiful acidity that provides
balance and freshness.
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