Wines Pauillac Château Pontet-Canet - 1990

Château Pontet-Canet 1990 is a remarkable Pauillac hailing from the renowned Médoc region in Bordeaux. Produced predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot in supporting roles, this red wine is structured, complex and deeply emblematic of its terroir. The 1990 vintage in Bordeaux is widely praised for its balance and ripeness, resulting from a hot, dry summer that allowed the grapes to achieve remarkable maturity. At Pontet-Canet, traditional vinification techniques are paired with careful ageing in oak barrels, giving rise to a wine with a refined bouquet and remarkable longevity. With over three decades of cellaring, tertiary notes—such as leather, cedar, truffle and tobacco—grace layered flavours of blackcurrant, plum and spices, all carried by a still vibrant structure.

Pauillac, situated on the left bank of the Gironde estuary, is a jewel of Bordeaux’s vineyard heritage. The region benefits from a temperate maritime climate, which moderates seasonal extremes and lengthens the growing season; this, coupled with its poor, gravelly soils, promotes perfect ripening and gives rise to some of the world’s most celebrated Cabernet-based wines. The area’s history is deeply intertwined with the classification of 1855, which established Pauillac’s reputation as the cradle of several grands crus, Château Pontet-Canet included.

A mature Pauillac such as this pairs beautifully with refined dishes that echo its complexity. Classic French fare like roast rack of lamb with rosemary, duck breast with a red wine reduction, or a slow-cooked beef daube will complement its evolved aromas. Alternatively, regional dishes such as entrecôte à la bordelaise, cooked in red wine and bone marrow, create a harmonious match. For cheese, opt for matured Comté or a Saint-Nectaire.

As for serving, decant the wine gently, allowing it to breathe for an hour to fully express its bouquet while shedding any sediment that may have formed. Serve at a temperature between 16-18°C to reveal its finesse and layers without losing freshness. This 1990 Pontet-Canet promises a memorable tasting experience, testimony to the enduring nobility of Pauillac’s terroir.