Chateau Pontet-Canet is a Fifth Growth Bordeaux wine estate owned by the Tesseron family (of Cognac fame) since 1975. The estate is a rarity in the Medoc, having known only three owners over a course of three centuries.

The vineyard spans 81 hectares in Pauillac, atop an outcropping of Garonne gravel over limestone. After a first trial in 2004, which took place on 14 hectares, Pontet-Canet fully converted the estate to biodynamic agriculture. They obtained organic certification from Ecocert, biodynamic certification from Biodyvin in 2010, and from Demeter in 2014.

Alfred Tesseron uses horses to plow the vineyards of Pontet Canet since they are gentler and lighter than tractors. Because the horses never step in the same place twice, the soils are always aerated in different parts, bringing much needed oxygen to the soil.

The vines have an average age of 40 to 45 years. Their varietal plantings are Cabernet Sauvignon (62%), Merlot (32%), Cabernet Franc (4%) and three parcels of Petit Verdot (2%).

Chateau Pontet-Canet is bright and brilliant with full-bodied fruit, yet finesse, in the mouth. It expresses energy, tension and intensity.

The fruit is fermented with native yeast in semi-conical concrete tanks that facilitate punch-downs. The wine then macerates for an additional four weeks before being removed from the pomace for maturation. One-third of the wine is aged in large, concrete amphorae, designed expressly for Pontet-Canet. The rest ages in French oak barrels.

Behold the magnificent 2010 Pontet-Canet, a Bordeaux blend that exemplifies the epitome of excellence in winemaking. With its deep garnet color and enticing aromas, this wine captivates the senses from the very first sip.

On the nose, the 2010 Pontet-Canet reveals a symphony of scents that dance harmoniously together. Notes of blueberry, dried flowers, minerals, and stones intertwine, creating a captivating bouquet. As the wine opens up, it unfolds further, revealing hints of dried meat and spices that add complexity and intrigue.

The palate of this wine is a revelation. Full-bodied and incredibly integrated, it showcases the remarkable quality of its tannins. Blackberry, licorice, and minerals dominate the flavor profile, while a wonderful purity adds a touch of elegance. The wine's seamless structure and amazing transparency allow you to truly appreciate the unique terroir from which it hails.

Critics have heaped praise upon this exceptional vintage. James Suckling awarded it a perfect score of 100, applauding its incredible aromas and seamless quality. John Sweeney from JJ Buckley hailed it as one of the stars of the vintage, praising its complex nose and broad, silky texture. Jancis Robinson found it to be delicious and opulent, with a resemblance to top-class Syrah.

Wine Spectator bestowed a score of 97 upon this wine, describing it as big, broad, and powerfully rendered, yet remarkably polished and refined. Wine Enthusiast was equally impressed, awarding it a score of 98 and highlighting its dense yet restrained character.

The 2010 Pontet-Canet is a wine that demands patience. While it can be enjoyed now, it is recommended to wait until at least 2018 to fully appreciate its magnificence. However, this wine has the potential to age gracefully for decades, and it wouldn't be surprising to see it still in fine drinking form on its 50th birthday.

In conclusion, the 2010 Pontet-Canet is a true masterpiece of winemaking. Its exceptional complexity, seamless structure, and remarkable purity make it a wine that will leave a lasting impression on any wine aficionado fortunate enough to experience it.