Le Merle Blanc de Château Clarke 2023

Winery Background and History

Château Clarke is a Bordeaux estate in Listrac-Médoc, acquired by Baron Edmond de Rothschild in 1973.  The property was revitalized under Rothschild’s ownership, with vineyard replanting and modernization.  Le Merle Blanc is the estate’s white Bordeaux expression, historically part of the Château Clarke heritage, revived under the Rothschild stewardship. 

Producer and Winemaker

The wine is produced by Château Clarke under Edmond de Rothschild’s direction, using their in house technical / cellar team.  The winemaking approach combines stainless steel and barrel regimes, with a portion of new oak used for complexity. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes come from the 135-acre estate vineyard, with vine age of about 30 years in many blocks.  The vines are planted on clay-limestone soils, and vineyard management includes grass cover to encourage biodiversity and soil health.  The climate is Bordeaux/Médoc — Atlantic influence, temperate, with moderate rainfall and warm summers mitigating extremes.

Vinification & Aging Methods

After pressing and cold settling, fermentation and maturation occur on lees.  About 25 % of the wine is aged in new barrels, 25 % in second-fill barrels, and the remaining in stainless steel for about six months.  The wine is finished with subtle oak influence to enhance complexity without overtaking freshness. 

Tasting Notes

On the nose: intense aromas of exotic fruits, white pear, hints of flint, white flowers, and delicate oak.  On the palate: ample and flavorful, balanced by fresh acidity, with citrus fruits, pear, subtle oak, and a crisp, elegant finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs well with seafood (oysters, scallops, lobster), white fish in citrus or herb sauces, shellfish, sushi, light poultry, and vegetable dishes. Also works with mild cheeses or light starters.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at around 8-10 °C. Use a white wine glass with sufficient width for aromatics to open. No decanting necessary.

Storage and Aging Potential

Best enjoyed relatively young to preserve its aromatic vibrancy — ideally within 5 to 7 years. Under good cellar conditions, it may retain quality somewhat longer, but the freshness will gradually soften.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

70 % Sauvignon Blanc, 10 % Sauvignon Gris, 10 % Sémillon, 10 % Muscadelle 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13 % 

Scores

• 91 / 100 — James Suckling for the 2023 vintage 

• 94 / 100 — Decanter (as cited by distributor)