At a glance

Producer

Château Clerc Milon

Region

Pauillac, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$90-$130

Tasting profile

Dark cassis, graphite, cedar, tobacco leaf, with herbal and pencil-shaving notes. Firm tannic grip and marked minerality.

Evolution: Will mellow over the next 5-8 years developing more tertiary notes of leather, truffle, forest floor, and licorice.

At peak: Complex layered aromas, rounder texture, integrated tannins with length and elegance.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high, providing backbone and freshness

Tannins

Firm and gripping, typical of classic Pauillac

Alcohol

Approximately 13.5%-14.5%

Aging potential

25-35+ years with excellent structure to develop complexity

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2055

Optimal window

2024 to 2058

Current status

Approaching early maturity, still youthful

Current condition

Likely tight fruit with firm tannins, needs more bottle age

Château Clerc Milon is a Fifth Growth Pauillac with substantial Cabernet Sauvignon content and robust structure. The 2016 vintage is considered excellent, providing strong tannin and acidity for extended aging. Based on classic Pauillac drinking windows and vintage quality, the wine will develop complexity and smoothness over 10-15 years, peaking between 12-22 years post-vintage.

Food pairing

Grilled or roasted lamb, prime rib, beef stew, game meats, aged hard cheeses like Comté or aged Gouda.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To aerate robust tannins and open complex bouquet before drinking

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Focus on reducing chemical inputs, green harvesting, water conservation measures, and energy-efficient winery operations

Château Clerc Milon participates in Bordeaux’s recognized sustainable viticulture programs emphasizing integrated pest management and resource conservation. The estate employs energy-saving technologies and water recycling. However, as a classic Bordeaux estate exporting internationally, the wine’s carbon footprint reflects transportation impact. Overall, their commitment to sustainability is solid with ongoing improvements.