The 39 year-old 1978 Chateau Clarke scored 71+ Dionysian points out of a possible 20. Its 12% alcohol was ideal, and it cost, back then, about $15. Barnyard aromas, a slight hint of Brett-leather, with notes of black fruit in a soft silky wine make it quite enjoyable.

The Appellation is Listrac and it's owned by Baron Edmond de Rothschild making it a wine that was made for both early and older drinking.

The Appellation is Listrac, in the Bordeaux area,  and it’s owned by Baron Edmond de Rothschild making it a wine that was made for both early and older drinking. Its merlot showed more than its cabernet sauvignon.

It was served with beef and string beans and married very well with the meal’s flavors. The Rothschild family makes some of the world’s greatest wines and it’s been some time since I bought a newer Chateau Clarke, but because of this one, I will look for them.  In vino veritas.