Wines Pauillac Château Pontet-Canet - 2019

Viniou Reviews

Château Pontet-Canet 2019, a distinguished Grand Cru from Pauillac, is a remarkable expression of Bordeaux excellence. Crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc, this cuvée showcases the estate’s firm commitment to biodynamic farming, ensuring an authentic reflection of its unique terroir. The 2019 vintage stands as a testament to precision and respect for nature, with grapes meticulously hand-harvested and vinified in both cement and oak, allowing fruit purity and complexity to shine. The resulting wine offers a deep, inky hue, with a bouquet of cassis, graphite, violet, and subtle wood smoke enveloping the senses. On the palate, it presents a blend of dark berries, licorice, fine-grained tannins, and a vibrant, lingering finish that promises graceful ageing.

Pauillac sits in the heart of the Médoc, along the left bank of the Gironde estuary. This prestigious appellation benefits from gravelly soils, which offer excellent drainage and reflect warmth to the vines, favouring ripening and delivering wines of structure and depth. The proximity to the Atlantic moderates temperatures, helping to preserve freshness and aromatic complexity. Pauillac’s history is closely entwined with that of Bordeaux’s greatest châteaux, its reputation cemented during the 1855 Classification. Château Pontet-Canet is a pioneer of organic and biodynamic viticulture in the appellation, producing wines renowned for both power and elegance.

A wine of this stature is best paired with equally noble dishes. Classic matches include roast rack of lamb, beef Wellington, or duck breast with berry reduction. For a regional touch, consider Pauillac lamb with garlic and thyme, or a hearty Bordelaise-style entrecôte. Mature cheeses such as aged Comté or British Stilton complement its richness and depth.

For optimal appreciation, decant the wine for at least an hour beforehand. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C to fully reveal its aroma, structure, and complexity. This wine will age beautifully, but already offers a magnificent experience for those seeking the refined power of Pauillac.