Wines Bordeaux Ch Picard 2009 St Estephe - 2009

Château Picard 2009 from Saint-Estèphe is a quintessential expression of Bordeaux’s distinguished left bank. Crafted primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with possible touches of Petit Verdot or Cabernet Franc, it is representative of the region’s classic blends. The 2009 vintage is particularly noteworthy, renowned as an exceptional Bordeaux year that benefited from optimal weather conditions—sunny days and cool nights—favouring grape ripeness while maintaining freshness. The wine’s élevage typically involves careful barrel ageing, often in French oak, lending subtle notes of spice and vanilla that support the deep core of blackcurrant, plum, cedar, and earthy undertones.

Saint-Estèphe, nestled at the northern end of the Médoc, is renowned for its robust and age-worthy reds. The region’s gravelly soils, interspersed with pockets of clay, provide excellent drainage while encouraging deep root systems, conferring power and structure to the wines. The Gironde estuary tempers the local microclimate, reducing risks of frost and helping to preserve acidity in the grapes. Saint-Estèphe wines are known for their firm tannic backbone, longevity, and capacity to develop tertiary notes of leather, tobacco, and forest floor with age—qualities beautifully illustrated in this matured 2009 vintage.

For food pairings, consider serving Château Picard 2009 alongside classic Bordelais fare. Roasted lamb with herbs, entrecôte à la bordelaise, or duck breast with blackcurrant sauce would all harmonise elegantly with the wine’s depth and structure. Wild mushrooms, earthy lentil stews, and hard cheeses like aged Comté or Ossau-Iraty are also excellent matches, accentuating the wine’s complex savoury notes while enhancing its refined tannins.

To fully appreciate the bouquet and palate of this matured Bordeaux, decanting an hour before serving is recommended to allow the wine to open up. The ideal serving temperature is 16–18°C; this will bring out the best of the wine’s aromatic complexity and supple texture, making for an exquisite tasting experience.