Château Pontet-Canet Bio 5ème Cru Classé, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France., 2015

Viticulture

The estate has 120 hectares, of which 81 hectares are planted. The soils are Quaternary gravel over clay and limestone. Vines average 50 years of age and are planted at a density of 9500 vines per hectare. These vines have seen more than their share of innovation in the past two decades including the introduction of rigorous green harvesting and conversion to biodynamic practices and certified organic wines. (*except 2007-2010)

Winemaking

Harvested into small-volume crates to reduce damage prior to fermentation. The fruit is delivered into the upper level of the chai, above the vats, where it is sorted. Thereafter the fruit is crushed and delivered into the vats using gravity rather than pumping, without any pre-maceration. These vats are a mix of wooden and concrete conical 80-hectolitre vats and most recently some some Nomblot concrete egg shaped fermentors. Maturation comprises of 16 to 18 months in oak, of which 50 to 60% is replaced each vintage.

Tasting Note

The wine shows an impressively deep colour and a complex bouquet dominated by fresh fruit aromas. On the palate, it is powerful, vibrant, and remarkably smooth, carried by a lively freshness that gives a deliciously succulent finish. There is a bracing energy to this wine, a vitality that defines its character. The 2015 will be remembered for its poise and longevity—a wine built to endure.

Food matching

A great choice with red meat in sauce or with pork dishes.