Château Pontet-Canet 2021, Pauillac

Château Pontet-Canet is a critically lauded wine estate located in the Pauillac appellation of Bordeaux’s northern Médoc region. The estate was ranked as a fifth growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification although in contemporary critical and popular circles, the estate is considered worthy of a much higher ranking. The 2021 year was an unusual year in every way. Doubts, fears, and finally relief thanks to the fortunate late-season conditions. After a historically mild February (+2.49°C compared with the ten-year average), bud burst occurred early in mid-March, i.e. a week before the already-early 2020 vintage. The year continued to prove challenging, with a series of extreme weather events. Luckily, the winemaker’s planning, knowledge and expertise paid off.

These cooler, richer soils are better suited to Merlot and produce wines that are more structured and fleshy in texture. To establish a link with the viticultural past, four plots located on the edge of the outcrop have been planted with the Petit Verdot variety, which brings spicy aromas to the Pontet-Canet “grand vin”.

Expert Tasting Notes: “Aromas of blackcurrants and black cherries with hints of crushed walnuts, grilled thyme, cocoa powder and graphite. It’s full-bodied with layers of ultra-fine, silky tannins that elegantly coat your palate, allowing the juicy and vibrant fruit to shine. Delicate and pristine, yet compact with lots of energy and power to uncover in the coming years. It lasts for minutes and is delicious now. The purity of fruit is really impressive.” – James Suckling, 98 Points.

60% cabernet sauvignon, 32% merlot, 4% cabernet franc and 4% petit verdot