The 2016 Pontet-Canet is a wine that exudes elegance, power, and complexity. Hailing from the illustrious Bordeaux region in France, this Bordeaux Blend showcases the best of Pauillac. With a deep garnet-purple color, it immediately captures the eye and draws you in with its allure.
On the nose, the aromas are hedonic and captivating. Notes of Black Forest cake, crème de cassis, and blueberry pie create a luscious and indulgent bouquet. As the wine opens up, hints of candied violets, hoisin, chocolate mint, charcuteries, and forest floor emerge, along with a delicate waft of star anise.
The palate is a testament to the wine's power and depth. Full-bodied and rich, it is layered with flavors that mirror the aromatic profile. The palate is built like a brick house, with firm, ripe, grainy tannins that add structure and balance. Despite its power, the wine maintains a harmonious freshness that lifts the flavors and creates a seamless experience. The finish is incredibly long and deep, leaving a lasting impression.
Renowned wine critic Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded this wine an impressive score of 98+ points. Lisa Perrotti-Brown describes it as "profoundly layered and powerfully fruited," predicting that it may even warrant a three-digit score in a few years' time. Vinous also gave it a score of 99 points, praising its exquisite balance, savory aromatics, and dark, incisive flavors.
This vintage of Pontet-Canet is truly exceptional and showcases the unique vision of winemaker Alfred Tesseron. With a commitment to biodynamic farming and sustainability, Pontet-Canet stands apart from other properties in the region. It is a wine that demands attention and will continue to evolve and develop over the next several decades. If you have the patience, it is worth waiting until 2025 to experience the full potential of this extraordinary wine.