Wines Barsac Château Climens - 2007

Viniou Reviews

Château Climens 2007, a renowned wine from the Barsac AOC within the Bordeaux region, is a stunning example of what this appellation can produce. Known as the "Lord of Barsac," Château Climens focuses primarily on the Sémillon grape, which thrives in this area. The 2007 vintage in particular benefited from a favourable growing season with a mixture of warm days and cool nights, allowing for the development of concentrated sugars crucial for sweet wines. Terroir in Barsac is distinct, with red clay and limestone subsoil that contribute to the wine's refined minerality and vibrant freshness.

The Bordeaux region, especially the Sauternais area where Barsac is located, is renowned for its unique climatic conditions. The meetings of the Garonne and Ciron Rivers create early morning mists in autumn, which are essential for the growth of Botrytis cinerea, or noble rot. This fungus enhances the sugar levels in the grapes, lending the resultant wines their rich, honeyed complexity. Historically, this region has been producing exquisite sweet wines since the 17th century, appreciated worldwide for their unique qualities.

Château Climens 2007 pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes. Its rich, luscious sweetness complements spicy Asian cuisine, balancing the heat and bold flavours. For a more traditional pairing, consider serving it alongside foie gras or a selection of blue cheeses like Roquefort, which can highlight the wine's honeyed notes and subtle nutty undertones. For a dessert pairing, a tarte tatin would be an elegant choice, with its caramelised apples harmonising beautifully with the wine's sweet profile.

When it comes to tasting this exquisite Barsac, serving it at the right temperature is key. Chill the wine to about 10-12°C to fully appreciate its aromatic bouquet and texture. Allow it a few minutes to open up in the glass, letting its complexities unfold with every sip, making it an unforgettable tasting experience.