La Petite Eglise (2nd label Eglise Clinet) 2011

The Deuxieme Vin of La Petite Eglise is pure Merlot picked on 16th September that is aged in 50% new barrels. It has a refined bouquet with pure blackberry and raspberry with well-integrated creamy new oak that does not impede upon the fruit profile. With time it offers a touch of cedar that is very attractive. The palate is medium-bodied with impressive balance and a silky smooth texture. It has some oak to subsume so it will need 3-4 years in bottle, though it does not have the tension or persistency one can find in the 2009 or 2010. Still, this is very fine and probably will be good value. Tasted April 2012.

There are some rich flavours on the nose and rich sweet fruit filling out the palate. The tannins show but feel ripe supporting but not over dominating. The sweetness on the back palate is balanced by some fresher flavours.

The second wine of L'Eglise Clinet is better than many châteaux's top wines in 2011. This is extremely fine and aromatic, more open than it often is at such a young age, with sweet fruitcake and red cherries on the palate, filigree tannins and a classy, perfumed finish. It's denser than it seems at first, and should age well. 10+ years.

Fragrant red fruit nose and palate. Fine grained tannins and good length. As usual lighter and less powerful than big brother l'Eglise-Clinet.