2016 Clos Marsalette
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Tasting notes
A bright sanguine note gives this a distinctive feel, while racy cassis and bitter cherry fruit fills in behind. Offers a long singed juniper note through the finish. A bit atypical in profile for Pessac, but the focus and energy is enjoyable. Apr 2017, James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Lively, floral and round and very fresh. Very rewarding. Lots of freshness. Apr 2017, www.jancisrobinson.com, Drink: 2020-2030
The 2016 Clos Marsalette is dark, powerful and juicy. The flavors are deep and boldly sketched in this fleshy, succulent Pessac Léognan from Stephan von Neipperg. Black cherry, plum, slate, violet and licorice infuse the creamy, resonant finish. It will be interesting to see if the 2016 develops more aromatic nuance over time. At this stage, it’s all about dense, almost primary, fruit. Tasted three times. Apr 2017, www.vinous.com
The 2016 Clos Marsalette, the Pessac-Leognan property of Comte Stephan von Neipperg, is a blend of 45% Merlot, 53% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc that was picked between 4-18 October and matured in 35% new oak. It has a clean and precise bouquet with blackberry and bilberry scents, a fine undercurrent of minerals. I like the elegance on display here. The palate is medium-bodied with mulberry and blackberry on the entry, a touch of black olive and quite a saline second half that is both fresh and detailed. This should drink well over the next decade. It's just a delicious wine--no more, no less. Apr 2017, www.robertparker.com