Château Clarke Le Merle Blanc

Tasting Notes from the Curator

Château Clarke Le Merle Blanc is an extraordinary representation of the complexity Bordeaux can harness in white wines, distinct especially within the Médoc, predominantly known for its reds. It begins with a bouquet resonating with floral notes of white flowers and honeysuckle, ushering in a serene and elegant aromatic presence. As you delve deeper into its fragrance, citrus fruits like lemon and mandarin surface, striking a delicate balance with stone fruits such as ripe pear and fleshy apple. This vibrant fruit profile is complemented by tropical hints of pineapple and passion fruit, adding an exotic nuance to its bouquet. Herbal undertones, with whispers of thyme and basil, seamlessly intertwine with its marked minerality, a direct reflection of Médoc’s distinctive terroir, further characterized by traces of candied quince and the warm, spicy embrace of liquorice and sweet spices. Its crisp acidity invigorates the palate with primary flavors of juicy lemon and mandarin zest, heightened by ripe pear and Granny Smith apple—melding into a subtly creamy texture that follows every sip, culminating in a balanced structure where flavors delicately linger.

Pairings & Suggestions

Château Clarke Le Merle Blanc’s crisp acidity and vibrant flavors make it exceptionally versatile with food:

• Seafood: Pairs effortlessly with grilled or pan-seared fish, enhancing the freshness of white fish varieties like sole and cod. For a light starter, consider oysters or clams that beautifully echo the wine’s mineral and citrus notes.

• Poultry: The wine’s acidity cuts through rich flavors in roasted or herb-marinated grilled chicken, particularly where citrus complements the meat.

• Salads: Perfect for citrus and avocado salads, where its minerality plays against fresh green elements and nutty flavors in grain-based salads like quinoa.

• Cheeses: A delightful companion to creamy brie or camembert, and refreshing with the slight tang of goat cheese.

• Asian Cuisine: Complements light dishes like sushi, or balances the heat in Thai or Vietnamese creations such as spicy green curry.

  A White Wine Wonder in Red-Dominated Médoc

Château Clarke Le Merle Blanc defies Bordeaux’s red wine preeminence with its exuberant white varietal craftsmanship. Established in 1780 by the Clarke family of Irish descent, the estate entered a transformative era in 1973 through acquisition by the esteemed Edmond de Rothschild family, globally recognized for their dedication to viticulture excellence. Originating in 1890, Le Merle Blanc became a revelation in a region known almost exclusively for its red wines. This made it a unique expression of the Médoc’s potential to harness diverse terroir for white winemaking. It embraces a traditional Bordeaux blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle, underscoring its rarity and the estate’s innovative outlook. Despite the overwhelming red dominance in Médoc, the efforts to cultivate and perfect a white wine of such elegance embody the dynamic adaptability and forward-thinking approach that Château Clarke is celebrated for, capturing the essence of rarity and quality synonymous with its name.

Storage Instructions

Store Château Clarke Le Merle Blanc in a cool, dark place with a steady temperature between 10-15°C (50-59°F) and humidity levels of 60-70%. Lay bottles horizontally to keep corks moist, preventing oxidation.