CHATEAU CLIMENS 1er Grand Cru Classe Barsac 2001 HALF

Description

IN BRIEF
Château Climens 2001 is a distinguished Sauternes wine from one of Bordeaux's most acclaimed estates, renowned for crafting exceptional sweet wines from the Semillon grape. Located in the Barsac area, this estate benefits from a unique climate and terroir that foster the production of world-class dessert wines. The 2001 vintage stands out for its harmonious balance of sweetness and acidity, showcasing a radiant golden hue indicative of its rich concentration from botrytis. Aromatically, it reveals complex layers of honey, ripe peach, apricot, and exotic fruits, complemented by hints of orange zest and vanilla. Rated 99 points by The Wine Advocate for its intensity and elegance, this remarkable wine pairs beautifully with foie gras and creamy cheeses, making it an exquisite choice for collectors and enthusiasts.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Château Climens 2001 is a distinguished Sauternes wine from one of the most revered estates in the Bordeaux region, known for its exceptional sweet wines made from the Semillon grape. Château Climens is situated in the Barsac area of Sauternes, where the unique climate and terroir contribute to the production of world-class dessert wines.

The 2001 vintage is particularly noteworthy, celebrated for its perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. In the glass, Château Climens 2001 exhibits a radiant golden hue, indicative of its rich concentration and the botrytis influence essential for Sauternes.

The aromatic profile is captivating, revealing complex layers of aromas such as honey, peach, apricot, and exotic fruits. These luscious fruit notes are complemented by hints of orange zest, vanilla, and subtle floral undertones, creating an inviting bouquet that entices the senses.

On the palate, Château Climens 2001 is nothing short of magnificent. The wine is rich and opulent, presenting a harmonious blend of vibrant sweetness and bright acidity. Flavors of ripe stone fruits, candied citrus, and honeycomb unfold, accompanied by a slight nuttiness and a touch of spice. The wine's luxurious texture is supported by a refreshing acidity that keeps it lively and elegantly balanced.

This Sauternes pairs wonderfully with a variety of culinary delights, including foie gras, rich pâtés, creamy cheeses, and fruit-based desserts. It is also delightful as a standalone indulgence, savored slowly to appreciate its complexity.

In summary, Château Climens 2001 is an exquisite representation of Sauternes, capturing the essence of the vintage and the estate's exceptional winemaking. With its concentration, depth, and remarkable aging potential, this wine is a true treasure for collectors and enthusiasts alike, embodying the artistry of sweet wine production in Bordeaux.

THE WINE ADVOCATE 99 points
Reviewed by: Neal Martin
Drink Date: 2014 - 2040
The Climens 2001 has always possessed a deliriously complex and intense bouquet that is beautifully defined: dried quince and marmalade, honeycomb and antique furniture. There is an inchoate, resinous element that will surely surface over the next decade or so. This is a bouquet that demands attention and in this blind tasting, sticks out from the crowd, a sui generis. Since I last tasted it, the palate has opened up and is beginning to pump on all cylinders. It is wonderfully balanced with fabulous intensity and a long, citrus-tinged finish that is utterly beguiling. As Kate Bush once sang: "Wow".

VINOUS 94-97+ points
Pale yellow-gold. Musky aromas of nearly roasted yellow fruits and marzipan, with an intoxicating botrytis tang. Firm on entry, then powerful and gripping in the middle, with multidimensional flavors of peach, passion fruit, spicy oak, acacia flower and vanilla. A wine of great power and intensity, yet there's nothing overbearing or heavy about it. To the best of my knowledge, this is the only one of these 2001s made entirely from semillon. - Stephen Tanzer

-----

ABOUT CHATEAU CLIMENS
Château Climens is a renowned winery located in the Sauternes appellation of Bordeaux, France, esteemed for producing some of the finest sweet wines in the world. Founded in the early 19th century, Château Climens has built a distinguished reputation as a Premier Cru Classé, celebrated for its commitment to quality and the unique expression of its terroir.

The estate encompasses approximately 30 hectares of vineyards primarily planted with Sémillon grapes, which thrive in the ideal conditions of the Sauternes region. The Climens vineyard benefits from the region's microclimate, characterized by morning fog and warm afternoons, which promote the development of noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). This natural phenomenon is crucial for creating the luscious, complex sweet wines for which Château Climens is famous.

The winemaking philosophy at Château Climens emphasizes organic practices and minimal intervention. The grapes are harvested manually in successive passes to select only the ripest, botrytised fruit. The wine is fermented and aged in oak barrels, allowing for the development of rich flavours and aromas while maintaining the wine's acidity and balance.

Château Climens is renowned for its elegant and aromatic Sauternes wines, which are characterized by their honeyed sweetness, vibrant acidity, and intricate layers of fruit, floral, and spice notes. The wines are celebrated for their ability to age gracefully, often developing remarkable complexity over time.

In addition to its focus on producing exceptional wines, Château Climens is dedicated to sustainability and preserving its unique vineyard ecosystem. The estate promotes biodiversity and employs environmentally friendly practices in its vineyard management.

Château Climens often welcomes visitors for tours and tastings, providing an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Sauternes region and the artistry of its winemaking. As Château Climens continues to evolve, it remains committed to crafting world-class sweet wines that reflect the heritage and terroir of Bordeaux, ensuring its legacy in the world of fine wine.