Château Pape Clément

Château Pape Clément

Château Pape Clément 2002

Château Pape Clément is a renowned winery located in the Pessac-Léognan appellation of the Graves region in Bordeaux, France. It is one of the oldest estates in Bordeaux, with a history dating back to the 13th century. The estate is named after its most famous owner, Pope Clement V, who was born Bertrand de Goth.

History

The origins of Château Pape Clément can be traced back to 1300 when Bertrand de Goth, the Archbishop of Bordeaux, received the estate as a gift. Upon his election as Pope Clement V in 1305, he bequeathed the vineyard to the archbishopric, and it has since been known as Pape Clément. The estate has changed hands several times over the centuries, with each owner contributing to its development and reputation.

Vineyard

The vineyard of Château Pape Clément covers approximately 63 hectares, with a diverse range of soil types including gravel, clay, and sand. The vineyard is planted with a mix of red and white grape varieties. The red varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, while the white varieties include Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle.

Winemaking

The winemaking process at Château Pape Clément is a blend of traditional techniques and modern innovations. The grapes are hand-harvested and sorted before fermentation. The wine is aged in oak barrels for 18 to 24 months, with a portion of the barrels being new each year. This careful aging process contributes to the wine's complexity and aging potential.

Wines

Château Pape Clément produces both red and white wines. The red wine is known for its rich, full-bodied character with notes of dark fruit, spice, and tobacco. The white wine is celebrated for its freshness and aromatic complexity, with flavors of citrus, peach, and floral notes.

Clémentin de Pape Clément 1990

The estate also produces a second wine, Clémentin de Pape Clément, which offers a more approachable style while maintaining the quality associated with the Pape Clément name.

Architecture

The château itself is an architectural gem, featuring a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. The estate includes beautifully manicured gardens and a historic chapel, adding to its charm and allure.

Visiting

Château Pape Clément is open to visitors, offering tours and tastings that provide insight into the winemaking process and the history of the estate. The tours often include a walk through the vineyards, a visit to the cellars, and a tasting of the estate's wines.

Cork of Château Pape Clément

Related pages

• Bordeaux wine
• Pessac-Léognan
• Graves
• Pope Clement V

Pape Clément 1961