Chateau Pape Clement   Pape Clement

1990 Pape Clement

By Chateau Pape Clement

1990 Pape Clement from Chateau Pape Clement, Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux

Among the great vintages, the 1990 Pape Clement from Chateau Pape Clement has left a resounding impression on the palates of fine wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Its outstanding clarity and disposition exemplify the very essence of what makes a Bordeaux blend a veritable treasure in any investor's portfolio.

 

Distinct Vintage, Distinct Vigour

The 1990 vintage emerged as one of Bordeaux's finest hours, basking in optimal weather that precipitated sublime fruit ripeness and generous tannins. The exceptional climate conditions of that year manifested in an incredibly balanced structure within each bottle of the 1990 Pape Clement. The meticulous amalgamation of grape varieties, primarily Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, reveals a tapestry of complexity marked by darker fruit notes that are interlaced with a mellow yet distinct hint of smoke and old leather.

 

An Investment Worth Its Terroir

The terroir of Pessac-Leognan imbues the 1990 Pape Clement with its characteristic gravitas and depth. Age has lent this venerable label a remarkable softness, allowing for tertiary aromatics such as truffle and earth to come to the fore. As we evaluate this sumptuous vintage for investment potential, both its provenance and pedigree are undeniable. Lay down or savour now, this particular vintage offers ample versatility paired with an admirable cellar longevity.

The importance of factoring in individual vintage character cannot be overstated when choosing wines with investment appeal; the 1990 Pape Clement represents such discernment.

 

A Symphonic Crescendo reminiscent of the 1990s Bordeaux Epoch

For those seeking to diversify their portfolio or simply indulge in a bottle redolent of history, the 1990 Pape Clement serves as a beacon of Bordeaux finesse. Savvy investors shall be rewarded with not just the sensory pleasure this vintage unfurls but also its endearing appeal augmenting over time. Thus, the 1990 Pape Clement embodies an elixir that is equally an opulent draught as it is an astute vestment.

Current market price

$2,720.00

12x75cl

Highest score

94

POP score

116.43

Scores and tasting notes

94

This complex, dark garnet/plum-tinged wine reveals some bricking at the edge, and its beautiful, smoky, meaty nose exhibits notions of sweet currants, black cherries, and licorice. Medium to full-bodied and fleshy with low acidity, sweet tannin, and an expansive mouthfeel with no hard edges, it is a fully mature 1990 that should drink well for another decade. In my opinion, the Pape Clement vintages from 1998 onward are even more impressive and deeper. Moreover, they possess greater longevity. Release price: ($310.00/case)

Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #183

92

Having not tasted this wine for several years, the bouquet instantaneously reminds me what a lovely Graves this is. The nose is just so natural and refined with rustic red-berried fruit, roasted chestnuts, a touch of game and black olive. Just wonderful! The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, slightly gritty in texture, very fine acidity and a languid black olive, tobacco and decayed leafy finish. This is an exquisite Pape that is just past its prime. Drink now-2020. Tasted July 2010.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2011

Vintage performance