2015 Pape-Clement Blanc (Pessac-Leognan)

The 2015 Pape Clement Blanc is a blend of 50% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Semillon and 10% Sauvignon Gris picked between 12 and 15 September at 29.5 hl/ha. Around 15% of the production was aged on egg-shaped concrete tanks. The nose is actually more introverted than the deuxième vin at the moment, but the complexity is locked in via shucked oyster shell and citrus notes. The palate is extremely well balanced with a keen line of acidity that imparts tension and freshness. This is a succinctly crafted white Bordeaux, almost understated at first, but it is only when it departs down the throat that its quality become apparent. Like the aforementioned deuxième vin, this comes highly recommended. 92-94 points

A finesse of sweet lemon on the nose; very inviting. Pape Clément has achieved that difficult balance of keeping to the exotic and rich house style while still ploughing a seam of freshness. A very good wine. 50% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Semillon, 10% Sauvignon Gris. 93 points

Big and bold on the nose. Very rich, almost sweet, and then, for the moment, the crisp citrus bit on the finish is not (yet?) integrated. Quite a show stopper but possibly too big and rich to marry with food easily. 17+ points