At a glance

Producer

Domaine Clarence Dillon

Region

Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Bordeaux Blend (typically Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc)

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$90–$115 (Wine-Searcher avg. retail, 750ml, 2024)

Tasting profile

Expressive nose of blackcurrant, plum, ripe red cherry, graphite, cigar box, cedar, and subtle smoky/earthy undertones. Palate shows mature black fruit, hints of truffle and tobacco, integrated oak, savory herbs, supple tannins, and savory minerality. Long, harmonious finish.

Evolution: As it ages further, primary fruits will recede, tertiary notes (leather, dried flowers, underbrush, mushroom) will intensify, tannins will soften further, and texture becomes silkier.

At peak: At peak, expect full integration of fruit, earth, and oak; tertiary complexity dominates but there is still fruit persistence and freshness, with a refined, seamless texture.

Structure

Acidity

Medium to medium-plus, giving freshness and longevity typical for Pessac-Léognan.

Tannins

Silky to resolved, formerly firm tannins now becoming smooth; fine-grained tannins underpinning the palate.

Alcohol

Approx. 13.5% ABV; well-integrated, not dominant.

Aging potential

20–24 years from vintage (solid for a second wine of a great estate in a good vintage).

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2018 to 2026

Optimal window

2013 to 2030

Current status

Ready now, in mature phase

Current condition

Wine is showing tertiary complexity, fully integrated structure, and is drinking at or near peak; will hold well with proper cellaring another 5–7 years.

The 2006 vintage in Pessac-Léognan produced structured, classic wines with solid acidity and fine tannins, granting strong mid- to long-term aging for the top wines and their second labels. La Chapelle de La Mission Haut-Brion—though a second wine—derives from high-quality terroir and top winemaking, so it has aged beautifully through its second decade, now offering full maturity with integrated structure and evolving complexity. Beyond its peak (post-2028/2030), the wine will become more delicate and tertiary, with diminishing fruit.

Food pairing

Superb with classic Bordeaux pairings such as roast lamb with rosemary, duck breast, beef tenderloin, grilled veal chop, mushroom risotto, earthy poultry dishes (e.g., coq au vin), or hard cheeses (Comté, aged Gouda). As the wine matures, favor dishes with earthy or umami components to match the wine's complexity.

Serving

Serving temperature

16–18°C / 61–64°F

Decant

Yes (30–60 minutes) — To remove sediment and allow mature aromatics to open up, enhancing bouquet and palate complexity.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Integrated pest management, biodiversity promotion in the vineyard, reduction of agrochemical use, water and energy efficiency projects.

Domaine Clarence Dillon has made significant investments in environmental stewardship through HVE certification and modern vineyard practices, but the estate is not fully organic or biodynamic. Efforts are ongoing to reduce carbon and water footprints.