2021 La Petite Eglise

The 2021 La Petite Eglise is an intriguing wine, although it naturally lacks the dynamic energy of the best years. Succulent red cherry, blood orange, cinnamon, new leather, spice and cedar all meld together. Gracious and supple, with tons of charm, La Petite Eglise is quite seductive in 2021.

- Antonio Galloni (12/2023)

The violets come out of the glass alongside plenty of cherries and hints of sliced peaches. Medium-bodied with a solid center palate of fruit and ultra-fine tannins that give length and drive. Structured and polished, leading to a finish that goes on for minutes. 90% merlot and 10% cabernet franc. (07/2024)

While the 2021 Château L'Eglise Clinet La Petite Eglise plays as the second wine of the château, it's always from the same parcels (which never play well with the others) as well as some of the younger vine Merlot. The 2021 is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc that was raised in 60% new French oak. It has the classic fresher style of the vintage yet brings good ripeness and depth in its red and black fruits, leafy tobacco, damp earth, and bouquet garni-like bay leaf nuances. Medium-bodied on the palate, it's nicely balanced, has a round, supple, elegant mouthfeel, soft tannins, and ample up-front charm and character. It will drink well for 7-8 years and evolve for even longer. (04/2024)

A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, La Petite Eglise 2021 is deep garnet-purple in color. It is a little closed to start, soon unfurling to offer glimpses at kirsch, fresh plums, and boysenberries, further opening out to accents of aniseed and wild sage. The medium-bodied palate is elegantly crafted, with a fine-grained texture and lively acidity supporting the red berry and earthy flavors, finishing on a mineral note. (04/2024)

Unwinding in the glass with aromas of spices plums, currants, licorice and toasty oak, the 2021 La Petite Eglise is medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, with a fleshy core of fruit that's framed by chalky, youthfully structuring tannins. It's one second wine that will require a bit of patience.

- William Kelley (02/2024)