Viniou Reviews
Château Pichon Baron’s “Les Tourelles de Longueville” 2020 is an alluring second wine from one of Pauillac’s renowned classified estates. This blend, typically dominated by Merlot with contributions from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, offers an accessible interpretation of the château’s grand style. The 2020 vintage was marked by early budbreak, warm weather, and some summer rainfall, culminating in a harvest that delivered both power and freshness in the fruit. Vinification is carried out with great care: destemming, gentle extractions, and ageing in oak barrels, with a significant proportion of new wood, preserve both complexity and typicity. In the glass, you can expect deep ruby colour with notes of ripe black cherry, cassis, graphite, and a delicate hint of cedar, underpinned by silken tannins and a vibrant finish.
Pauillac, nestled in the northern Médoc on Bordeaux’s left bank, benefits from a unique terroir of deep gravel soils over a clay sublayer, facilitating excellent drainage and the perfect maturation of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The temperate maritime climate, cooled by the nearby Gironde estuary, protects the vines from extremes and allows for long, even ripening. Historically, Pauillac has established itself as the centrepiece of Bordeaux’s wine aristocracy, hosting some of the world’s most prestigious châteaux and crafting wines celebrated for their structure, longevity, and aromatic depth.
This wine’s elegance and roundness make it particularly suitable for classical Bordeaux pairings. Roasted lamb, especially with garlic and rosemary, highlights the finesse and structure, while duck breast or a well-cooked ribeye compliment the ripe fruit and earthy undertones. For a regional touch, try Pauillac’s famous lamb, or local cheeses such as Ossau-Iraty. Mushroom-based dishes or truffle risotto also work brilliantly with its subtle forest-floor notes.
For optimal enjoyment, serve Les Tourelles de Longueville 2020 at around 16-18°C. Decanting it for an hour will help the youthful tannins soften and allow the bouquet to fully blossom. This wine is approachable now, but it will develop beautifully over the next five to eight years if you wish to lay it down in your cellar.
