The 27May2023 Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) Vintages Release catalogue has a snippet of a jamessuckling.com review for a Château Clou du Pin 2020 stating, “There is a rusty note in the finish that reminds you of rusty nails.” Indeed a most interesting descriptor! Yet “clou” in French means “nail” and thank goodness not a fingernail!
Aroma: There is no mistaking the Merlot in this 100% Merlot! Leaving aside this highly brilliant observation it is an aroma of controlled lushness. Loads of black plum, black cherry and blackberry.
Palate: Drum roll please as we await that rusty nail taste! Big tannins hold back the fruit but give it some Rodney Dangerfield respect. There is a bit of licorice and pepper on the finish along with homemade cherry jam but damn if I can find any rusty nails.
Cellarbility: I think this needs some decanting unless you have the patience to hold for 3-5 years.
Food Match: Grilled beef tenderloin or an Eggplant Parmesan made with field eggplant and tomatoes. Can’t wait for eggplants in August here in Ontario! Food a must for this wine.
Personality: I resent being nailed down by some wine writer stating I taste like nails. Probably some AI plot against me. I am a bit tough and chewy which a bit of aeration or ageing might help but being not a vampire no nail through my heart please.
Price: $18.95 (Ontario).
RKS 2023 Wine Rating: 88/100. Jamessuckling.com 89.
(Château Clou du Pin 2020, AC Bordeaux Supérieur, Domaines Fontana, Gensac, France, 750 mL, 15%, Liquor Control Board of Ontario # 28727.)
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