2020, Château Guillot-Clauzel, POMEROL

Bordeax Blend: Merlot, Cabernet Franc

The 2020 Guillot-Clauzet is overseen by Guillaume Thienpont of Vieux-Château-Certan and has quite a lush black cherry, raspberry coulis and black truffle bouquet that unfurls in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins and very well-integrated oak. This Pomerol has lovely balance; it’s not powerful and ostentatious, but refined. There’s a judicious sprinkling of black pepper toward the finish. This is well worth seeking out. 91-93 Neal Martin.

This has a ton of perfume and charm, so much juice and Pomerol appeal. Plenty of chocolate and autumnal berry fruit a sappy if austere finish. An enjoyable, appealing and heartfelt Pomerol, really one to recommend and to track down. Third vintage with Guillaume Thienpont as consultant and viticulturist, a little less Cabernet Franc this year due to a low 30hl/ha yield. 93 Jane Anson, Decanter

The 2020 Guillot-Clauzel is impressive. Inky and voluptuous, it’s a seriously intense, concentrated Pomerol. Blackberry jam, dried herbs, chocolate, liquorice and dark spice are all kicked up a few notches. The 2020 has quite a bit of textural opulence that is the signature of a warm, dry summer. Guillaume Thienpont continues to do compelling work at this small estate. 92-94 Antonio Galloni, Vinous.

The medium to full-bodied palate is chock-full of ripe, rich, decadent black fruits with loads of red fruit and floral sparks and a backbone of velvety tannins, with great tension to boot, finishing long and spicy. The consultant winemaker here is Guillaume Thienpont (of Vieux Chateau Certan), and he is doing an amazing job of breathing fresh life into this promising Pomerol site! 93-95 Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate.

Drinking window: 2024 - 2038.