Clos La Gaffelière 2018 is a prestigious Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé from the renowned Clos La Gaffelière estate, a property with a rich history of producing exceptional wines. The 2018 vintage is a blend primarily of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, two key varieties for this terroir, which produce wines of great elegance, depth, and aging potential. The 2018 growing season in Bordeaux was characterized by a warm, dry summer, contributing to the wine’s ripe, concentrated flavors.
Appearance:
The Clos La Gaffelière 2018 has a deep ruby-red color with slight garnet hues around the rim, signaling both the wine’s youth and its potential for aging. The color is rich and intense, reflecting the wine's concentration.
Nose:
On the nose, the wine is complex and aromatic, with a captivating blend of ripe dark fruits like blackberry, black cherry, and plum, which are typical of the Merlot dominant blend. The Cabernet Franc adds a layer of freshness and aromatic complexity, contributing hints of violet, herbs, and a subtle touch of graphite. As the wine evolves in the glass, there are nuanced secondary aromas of spice, including cinnamon and clove, along with delicate notes of cedar and tobacco from the oak aging. There’s a hint of minerality that adds to the wine’s depth and the unique character of the terroir.
Palate:
On the palate, the Clos La Gaffelière 2018 is full-bodied and elegant, offering a rich, silky texture. The dark fruit flavors dominate, with blackcurrant, blackberry, and plum providing a lush fruit profile. The wine has an excellent balance of fresh acidity, which provides vibrancy and lift, complementing the fruit. The tannins are well-structured but smooth, contributing to the wine's overall harmony and potential for aging. The oak influence is present but integrated, with hints of vanilla, toast, and spice that add complexity without overwhelming the fruit. The wine has a distinctive mineral edge that gives it a sense of place, highlighting the terroir of Saint-Émilion.
Finish:
The finish is long and refined, with the dark fruit flavors and spice lingering on the palate. The tannins soften, leaving a smooth, elegant aftertaste with a final touch of oak and earthiness, creating a lasting impression of finesse and depth.
Pairing:
The Clos La Gaffelière 2018 pairs wonderfully with grilled meats such as steak, lamb, and duck, as well as roast beef and game meats like venison. It also works beautifully with rich dishes like braised short ribs, mushroom risotto, or coq au vin. For cheese pairings, try aged cheeses like Comté, Gruyère, or Brie de Meaux.
Overall Impression:
The Clos La Gaffelière 2018 is a luxurious and elegant wine that embodies the best qualities of Saint-Émilion. It is well-balanced, with rich fruit, refined tannins, and complex layers of oak, spices, and minerality. This wine offers an excellent balance of approachability and aging potential, making it an exceptional choice for both immediate enjoyment and long-term cellaring. It is a true reflection of the estate’s commitment to producing wines of outstanding quality and character.
