Château Clarke – 2012
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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
- Harvest Date(s): Merlot from October 8 to October 17; Cabernet Sauvignon from October 17 to October 18.
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Vinification
- Fermentation: Cold soaking and fermantation in oak and stainless-steel vats. Automatic temperature control.
- Aging: 16 months, 100% in barrels (two-thirds new and one-third second fill)
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Technical Information
- Alcohol: 13.5%
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Tasting Notes
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Château Clarke 2012 has a beautiful crimson color with a deep purple rim. Both intense and complex, the nose displays fresh fruit aromas (blackcurrant and black cherry) and elegant oaky nuances, as well as hints of menthol and liquorice with aeration. The wine starts out round and straightforward on the palate. A serious wine, thanks to a rich, concentrated and velvety tannic texture, along with a beautiful acidity that provides balance and freshness.
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Images
Reviews
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Château Clarke – 2012 – Decanter – 90 Points
Blackberries are the dominant fruit along with hints of crab apple and cinnamon spice. This has a more gourmet overtone than the 2011, and is a little richer overall in terms of structure and weight. Still ready to drink now, with the lovely hints of smoked oak that were found in the 2009. A good choice for opening now.