The 2016 Château Clarke is a flagship wine of the Edmond de Rothschild portfolio and one of the leading estates of Listrac-Médoc. Acquired and revitalised by Baron Edmond de Rothschild in 1973, the estate is unique in the Médoc for its Merlot-dominant vineyards planted on clay-limestone soils, producing a style that combines Left Bank structure with Right Bank richness and generosity. The 2016 vintage is composed primarily of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and is widely regarded as one of the château’s finest recent releases.
The nose is rich and expressive, revealing cassis, blackberry and black plum layered with cedar, graphite, cocoa, tobacco leaf and subtle vanilla spice. Full-bodied and beautifully polished, the palate delivers a dense core of dark fruit supported by ripe, finely integrated tannins and fresh acidity. Wine Enthusiast awarded the wine 93 points, praising its richness, balance and ageing potential, while Decanter described it as another successful vintage with impressive concentration and structure.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A superb Médoc that consistently overdelivers and offers outstanding value compared with many classified growths. Rich, polished and beautifully balanced, it pairs wonderfully with roast lamb, beef fillet, venison, duck and aged hard cheeses. Decant for at least an hour if drinking now. While already showing impressive harmony, this wine has the structure and freshness to evolve gracefully through 2040–2045 and beyond.
