Château Climens: A Bordeaux Icon of Purity and Elegance
- The WineBeast
- Mar 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 10
About Château Climens
With a history dating back to 1547, Chateau Climens is a name synonymous with finesse and purity in Bordeaux winemaking. The name "Climens," meaning "poor-quality soil" in early medieval vernacular, belies the exceptional wines it produces. Acquired by Lucien Lurton in 1971 and passed on to his daughter Bérénice in 1992, the estate transitioned to biodynamic farming under her leadership in 2010. Recent acquisition by the Moitry family in 2022 heralds a new chapter for this iconic estate.
The 32-hectare vineyard, exclusively planted with Semillon, is a rarity among the crus classés. Situated on gravel and clayey ferruginous sand topsoil over a starfish limestone bedrock, the vines average 38 years old and yield a mere 12 hectolitres per hectare. Château Climens stands second only to Yquem in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, known for its outstanding delicacy and purity.
Focus on Sauternes Appellation
Sauternes spans 2,200 hectares, characterized by gravel and pebbles atop limestone soil with clay veins. The appellation’s microclimate, where cold River Ciron waters meet warmer River Garonne currents, generates autumnal mists that promote the development of noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). This phenomenon is essential for the concentrated, sweet wines the region is renowned for. Semillon dominates with 80% of plantings, supported by Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle. Sauternes is home to 27 grands crus classés, with Château d'Yquem as its Premier Cru Supérieur.
1998 Sauternes, Château Climens: A Vintage Worth Revisiting
Fragrant notes of white stone fruits, candied citrus peel, lemon meringue, beeswax, and acacia flowers define the nose of the 1998 Château Climens. The satiny texture and remarkable purity are enhanced by flavours of blood peach, dried apricot, bitter orange, apple pie, vanilla, and toasted hints. Fine acidity leads to a long, persistent finish.
Often overshadowed by its 1997 and 1999 counterparts, this 1998 vintage has aged beautifully, showcasing the terroir’s exceptional quality. At 26 years old, it retains freshness, vitality, and a zesty lift, making it sweet yet never heavy. This finely chiselled wine exudes captivating complexity and graceful elegance.
Grape Varietals: Semillon
Why Choose Château Climens?
Château Climens stands out for its biodynamic practices, dedication to Semillon, and remarkable ability to produce wines of purity and depth. Whether you’re a collector or simply a lover of fine wines, Climens offers an experience unmatched by many. The recent stewardship by the Moitry family promises continued innovation while respecting the estate’s storied history.
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