Château Clerc Milon: A Jewel of Pauillac
Introduction
Château Clerc Milon, nestled in the prestigious Pauillac appellation of Bordeaux, is a Fifth Growth estate under the 1855 Classification. Despite its official ranking, Clerc Milon consistently produces wines that rival those of higher-ranked estates, offering an exquisite combination of power, finesse, and balance. Owned by the Rothschild family, the château benefits from their expertise and commitment to excellence, ensuring that each vintage of Clerc Milon is a true reflection of Pauillac’s noble terroir.
History of Château Clerc Milon
The history of Château Clerc Milon dates back to the 18th century when it was originally part of the larger estate of Château Lafite. Over the years, the vineyard was subdivided, and in 1855 it was classified as a Fifth Growth under the name Clerc Milon. The name “Clerc” comes from Jean-Baptiste Clerc, who owned the property in the 19th century, and “Milon” refers to the nearby hamlet of Milon, located in the heart of Pauillac.
In 1970, the estate was acquired by Baron Philippe de Rothschild, who also owns Château Mouton Rothschild. Recognizing the potential of Clerc Milon, the Baron undertook significant improvements in the vineyard and winemaking facilities, elevating the quality of the wines to new heights. Today, the château is managed by the Baron’s daughter, Baroness Philippine de Rothschild, who continues to uphold the family’s tradition of excellence.
Château Clerc Milon boasts a prime location in Pauillac, with vineyards situated on well-drained gravel soils that are ideal for growing Cabernet Sauvignon, the dominant grape in the blend. The estate’s 41 hectares of vineyards are planted with a mix of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot, and 1% Carmenère. The latter two varieties, although present in small quantities, add complexity and spice to the final blend.
The winemaking process at Château Clerc Milon is a careful balance of tradition and modernity. The grapes are harvested by hand and undergo rigorous selection before fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels, of which approximately 40% are new each year, for 16 to 18 months. This aging process imparts subtle oak nuances and allows the wine to develop its signature structure and depth.
•Appearance: Château Clerc Milon typically displays a deep, dark ruby color with purple highlights, indicative of its youth and concentration.
•Nose: The nose is complex and expressive, with aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and ripe plum, interwoven with hints of tobacco, cedar, and vanilla. Subtle notes of graphite, earth, and spices such as clove and pepper add further layers of complexity.
•Palate: On the palate, Clerc Milon is full-bodied and well-structured, with ripe, velvety tannins that provide a firm backbone. The flavors mirror the nose, with rich dark fruit complemented by notes of mocha, licorice, and a touch of minerality. The wine’s balance of acidity and tannins ensures a long, elegant finish, with lingering notes of black fruit and a hint of toasted oak.
•Finish: The finish is long and persistent, with the wine’s fine tannins and vibrant acidity promising excellent aging potential.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Château Clerc Milon is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Its bold flavors and structured tannins make it an ideal match for roasted meats such as lamb, beef, or game. The wine’s complexity also complements rich, flavorful dishes like duck confit, beef Wellington, or a hearty venison stew. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing Clerc Milon with roasted portobello mushrooms, lentil stew, or a truffle risotto.
Cheese lovers will appreciate the way Clerc Milon pairs with aged hard cheeses such as Comté, Parmesan, or Manchego. The wine’s fruitiness and tannins also balance the creamy richness of blue cheeses like Roquefort or Stilton.
Aging Potential
Château Clerc Milon is known for its excellent aging potential, thanks to its robust tannic structure and balanced acidity. While the wine is approachable in its youth, offering vibrant fruit flavors and freshness, it truly shines with a few years of bottle age. Over time, the tannins soften, and the wine develops additional layers of complexity, with secondary and tertiary aromas of leather, cigar box, and forest floor emerging. Depending on the vintage, Clerc Milon can be cellared for 15 to 25 years or more, making it a great choice for collectors.
Conclusion
Château Clerc Milon is a true gem of Pauillac, offering a quintessential expression of the region’s terroir and winemaking tradition. With its rich history, meticulous vineyard management, and commitment to quality, Clerc Milon consistently produces wines that are both accessible and age-worthy. Whether you’re a seasoned Bordeaux enthusiast or new to the world of fine wine, Château Clerc Milon is a must-try, offering a taste of the elegance and power that define the best of Pauillac.
For those looking to add a bottle of Château Clerc Milon to their collection, or to enjoy a truly memorable wine experience, this Fifth Growth estate is sure to impress. Whether served at a special dinner or savored on its own, Clerc Milon is a wine that reflects the artistry and passion of Bordeaux winemaking at its finest.
