Ch. Pape Clement, Cru Classe de Graves, Pessac-Leognan, 2000 Red Wine, 75cLBy Winebuyers

1 x 75cl. The Pape Clement estate, claiming to be the oldest functioning estate in Bordeaux, dates back to 1252. It takes its name from Bernard de Groth, who ascended to the papacy as Clement V in 1305. He donated the estate to the church, the Archdiocese of Bordeaux, who ran it until the French Revolution. The estate was acquired by the Montagne family in 1939, who still own it today. Pape-Clement has Cru Classe de Graves status for its red wines, which are produced from 32 hectares of vineyards planted with 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and small amounts of white grape varieties. The winemaking process involves immense care, from ploughing the vineyards with oxen to de-stemming by hand. The Pape-Clement red wine is known for its rich and powerful style, although in recent years there has been an increase in elegance. The estate also produces a white wine, the only white Bordeaux to do so.