Château Clarke 2018

Winery Background and History

Château Clarke is a Médoc estate located in Listrac-Médoc, acquired in 1973 by Baron Edmond de Rothschild.  Under Rothschild ownership, the vineyards were replanted and the estate modernized, with emphasis on balancing tradition with technical advancement. 

Producer and Winemaker

The estate winemaking team combines classic Bordeaux methods with modern cellar practices. For the 2018 vintage, the wine was vinified in both oak vats and stainless steel and underwent malolactic fermentation in barrels.  The blend is then matured in French oak barrels (a portion new) for about 16–18 months. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The vineyards cover clay-limestone hilltops in Listrac-Médoc, with vines planted on soils that favor Merlot expression in the Médoc region, which is relatively rare.  The 2018 vintage benefited from a warm season, favoring ripeness, but the maritime influence and cooler nights preserved acidity and balance. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Fruit was hand picked, sorted, and cold soaked before fermentation.  Fermentation was conducted in a combination of oak vats and stainless steel.  Malolactic fermentation took place in oak barrels.  Aging lasted approximately 16–18 months with a mix of new and used oak barrels. 

Tasting Notes

The wine shows deep garnet / crimson with a purple rim.  Aromas include ripe black fruits (blackberry, plum), toasted oak, spice, hints of violet, forest herb, subtle chocolate and tobacco.  On the palate it is balanced, with juicy red and black fruits, firm but elegant tannins, fine acid backbone, touches of nutmeg, vanilla, and a lingering finish of fruit and mild oak. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs well with grilled beef or lamb, game meats, mushroom risotto or dishes with earthy components, and aged hard cheeses.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at about 16-18 °C. Decant for 30 minutes (or more) before serving to allow the wine to open. Use a Bordeaux / Médoc style red wine glass.

Storage and Aging Potential

While approachable now, it can age further. Under good cellar conditions (cool, stable, dark) it should evolve over the next 8–12 years (or more), gradually developing tertiary notes like leather, earth, and dried fruit.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

70 % Merlot, 30 % Cabernet Sauvignon 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14 %