Chateau Pape Clement, Grand Cru Classé de Graves, 2012

Château Pape Clément has been producing fine wines on the same terroir for more than 750 years. It was named after Bertrand de Goth, Archbishop of Bordeaux, who became Pope Clement V in 1305. He took great interest in vine-growing, and he influenced not only this estate, but also the Rhône regions of Gigondas and Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Bought in 1985 by entrepreneur, Bernard Magrez, whose investment reinvigorated this famous estate, and it became known for polished, powerful wine under guidance from famed oenologist, Michel Rolland. The cuvée is typically just over half Cabernet Sauvignon, with a little less Merlot and a seasoning of Cabernet Franc.