critic reviews
Slate textured from the first moment, with grip and tension, firm texture and depths, confidently constructed without being so sleek that it loses appellation character. Gentle spice, brambled fruits, soft finish. An earlier-drinking slice of Pauillac. No new barrels for ageing, harvest September 7 to 29, a touch of Carmanère in the blend both in this and the main estate wine.
The 2023 Pastorelle de Clerc Milon feels just a little lean on the nose at the moment, displaying light and slightly austere black fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with grippy tannins, quite a bold and slightly sinewy Pastorelle, though barrel-aging with smooth down its edges.
The 2023 Pastourelle de Clerc Milon is deep garnet-purple in color. It bursts from the glass with bold notes of stewed plums and baked blackberries followed by hints of spice cake, dried roses, and charcoal. The medium to full-bodied palate is dense with juicy black fruits framed by soft tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing fruity. The blend is 63% Merlot, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Carmenere. The alcohol is 14.2%.