The 2009 Pichon-Longueville Baron, a Bordeaux blend from the Pauillac sub-region, stands as a testament to the power and elegance that Bordeaux wines can achieve. This red wine, with an alcohol content of 13.5%, is a blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon and 33% Merlot, aged in 80% new oak barrels.
Jeff Leve from The Wine Cellar Insider offers high praise, awarding it a stellar score of 98. He describes the wine as having "volume, depth, precision and strong, ripe, tannins," with enticing notes of "smoke, tobacco, cigar box, crème de cassis, black cherry, forest leaf, and truffle." Leve suggests it will improve with further aging, offering enjoyment for up to 30 more years.
James Suckling rates it at 95, noting its bold, smoky, and chocolatey character, which presents a "concentrated and massive" experience typical of the Médoc. He suggests pairing it with a T-bone steak to complement its warm finish.
Jeff Loo from JJ Buckley, another advocate for this vintage, gives it a 97, calling it "one of the finest of the appellation." He highlights a rich palate of "dark chocolate cherries" and anticipates it will evolve wonderfully over the next 25 years.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also rates it highly at 96, with Lisa Perrotti-Brown noting its "very meaty/savory nose" and "beautifully plush tannins" that lend to a long and herbal finish.
Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, Vinous, and other reviewers echo these sentiments, all scoring it in the mid-90s and praising its potential for long-term cellaring. This wine's authoritative structure, with notes ranging from black plum to graphite, ensures it remains a powerful yet balanced choice for those seeking a classic Bordeaux.