94-96+ Points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "A blend of 55% Sauvignon Blanc and 45% Sémillon, the Pape Clement 2017 Blanc gives up profound notes of apricots, spiced pears and apple tart with suggestions of orange blossoms, fresh ginger and beeswax. The palate is medium-bodied with plenty of tightly wound, intense stone fruit and spicy layers supported by fantastic freshness, finishing very long."' 04/18
Antonio Galloni
96 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2017 Pape Clément is outrageously beautiful. Rich, deep and luscious on the palate, the 2017 possesses tremendous energy and richness from start to finish. Sweet red cherry, red plum, blood orange, spice and herb notes abound in an unctuous, racy wine of the highest level. The 2017 is deep, explosive and wonderfully persistent. It has been terrific on the three occasions I have tasted it so far." 03/20
Vinous Media
91-93 Points, Neal Martin, Vinous: "The 2017 Pape Clément Blanc was picked from 30 August to 14 September, 15% of the production is aged in 8-hectolitre egg-shaped concrete vats and Burgundy barrels (30% new) for a total élevage of 14 months. The nose offers citrus fruit, kaffir lime and white flower scents that need a little encouragement from the glass. The palate is well balanced with a fine line of acidity. Freshly squeezed lime with white peach and a touch of mango lead to a crisp, lemongrass-tinged finish." 5/18.
James Suckling
97-98 Points, James Suckling: "This is so serious with incredible density and a chewy texture. Focused and tight. Layered and fascinating. Lots of minerals and lemon rind. Great young white. Can't wait to see it after its elevage." 04/18
Wine Spectator
93-96 Points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator: "Enticing, with a lush brioche frame taking shape around a core of yellow apple, pear, green fig and straw flavors. Shows a long echo of macadamia nut on the finish. Will be on the exotic side and a winner when bottled. "
Wine Enthusiast
93-95 Points, Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiasts: "Barrel Sample. This wine is a rich, toasty and spicy pour. With generous and well-concentrated yellow fruits as well as intense minerality, it is set for long-term aging; don't drink before 2023." 4/18.
Decanter
have found that Magrez estates have done exceptionally well in 2017, pretty much across the board, but here I feel a reach towards the barrel that is just the slightest bit out of step with the ripeness of the fruit. The tannins are flexible and in control, but it just lacks a touch of the opulence in the black fruits that was so abundant in 2015 and 2016. There is no doubt that it has been very well constructed, and it will age confidently in the medium to long term." 4/18.
Other
94-96 Points, Jeb Dunnuck, www.jebdunnuck.com: "From a 6.7-hectare parcel of the Pessac vineyard and made from 55% Sauvignon and 45% Sémillon, aging in 55% new French oak, the 2017 Château Pape Clément Blanc offers a powerful, medium to full-bodied profile as well as smoking good notes of pineapple, lychee nut, and exotic flowers. None of the oak its aging is noticeable, it has bright acidity, a stacked mid-palate, and a great finish. It's more elegant and focused than the blockbuster styled 2015, and has a chiseled, elegant style capable of lasting for two decades or more. Tasted three times.' 4/18.