Wines Pauillac Château Pontet-Canet - Château Pontet-Canet - 2019

Viniou Reviews

Château Pontet-Canet 2019 is an exceptional Bordeaux red from the illustrious Pauillac appellation in the Médoc. This estate, renowned for its biodynamic principles, offers a wine primarily based on Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The 2019 vintage benefited from a temperate season with well-timed rainfall, resulting in balanced ripeness and elegantly structured tannins. Vinification at Pontet-Canet focuses on gentle extraction and ageing in a blend of new and used French oak, preserving both the power and finesse of the fruit. In the glass, it exemplifies classic Pauillac: blackcurrant and cassis interlaced with violet, graphite, cedar, and subtle spicy notes, all underpinned by a precise mineral backbone.

The Pauillac region, situated on the left bank of the Gironde estuary, is famed for its gravelly soils and proximity to the river, both of which foster optimal drainage and reflect sunlight to the vines. This unique terroir is central to the intensity and aromatic complexity that define Pauillac wines. The area’s temperate, oceanic climate, softer than inland Bordeaux, contributes to the consistent quality of its vintages. Historically, Pauillac has been at the heart of Bordeaux’s greatest growths, celebrated for its deep, age-worthy reds that embody both strength and elegance.

This wine’s robust structure and layered aroma profile make it an ideal partner for classic Bordeaux cuisine. Consider pairing it with roast lamb studded with garlic and rosemary, grilled entrecôte, or duck breast served with a rich red wine sauce. Regionally, Pauillac is famed for agneau de Pauillac (milk-fed lamb) — a sublime local match. For cheese, opt for aged Comté or Ossau-Iraty to echo the wine’s depth.

When serving Château Pontet-Canet 2019, decant the wine for one to two hours ahead of time to help its complex aromas unfold. The optimal serving temperature is 16-18°C, which highlights the aromatic nuances and assures a harmonious palate. This is a wine capable of graceful ageing, but it can also be enjoyed now with proper aeration and suitable food pairings.