His memoirs do not include the most famous anecdote, possibly apocryphal, about his law practice. That’s the one about the client who is having trouble with a regulatory agency and asks Clifford what to do. Clifford advises, “Do nothing,” and sends a bill for $5,000. The client calls Clifford and says, “At least tell me why I should do nothing.” Clifford says, “Because I said so,” and sends a bill for $10,000.
Ha! I interviewed (unsuccessfully) for a job with him years and years ago
I’m not Jeff, and I don’t know the facts about Bordeaux. In the Rhone, with the late Cambie, there were numbers of levels for consulting. For the least expensive one, which only cost ca 1,000 Euros , or did some years ago, he would drop in a couple of times, give you some words of wisdom and allow you to use his name for attracting importers. At the top level, he all but made the wine for you. I don’t know what that cost. That’s why, in other discussions, Jeff insisted contra Alfert and me, that knowing the consultant didn’t automatically identify the style of wine. He is right, though, as I said, it’s an imperfect, but often pretty good indication. To Robert’s question of what good does a Boissenot do if they all use him, there are two possible answers. His level of knowledge means that, by using him, one gets a better wine. And two, if non-Rolland type consultants help you make the wine you want to make–one hears there are such–he won’t give the same advice to everyone. I do know winemakers who don’t use any consultant, though, and there is a good argument for doing that.
Hey Neal… It means different things to each vineyard. It could be only the blending, or just a quick check with a different palate on their blend, vinifications, vineyards or bottlings. Maybe a visit once or twice a year to discuss things. I do not know.
He’s very discreet and never brags about his work. His journalist tastings are all the small wines he works with, not the classified growths.
While a few consultants have made themselves household names, that’s not his way. His father was equally quiet, giving the chateau all the public rewards.
Even though a few people on this board breakout in hives over consultants, most are only involved in a minor role at the estates they work with. Yes, while their role can make them a part of team, it’s not always the case. It varies. Some properties hire consultants just because they get their wine in front of critics, while others have them manage the entire estate.
Anything a property can do to improve their brand helps in todays competitive marketplace.
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Had the 2016 last night. Had the 2014 a week ago. Would love to hear your thoughts on these if you tried them near in time. I’m guessing 2014 would be your choice, but that’s just an educated guess. I have not tried the 2018.
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I don’t have the 2016.