The 2018 Pontet-Canet is a Bordeaux Blend from the Pauillac region in Bordeaux, France. Produced by Pontet-Canet, this red wine is characterized by its deep, garnet-purple hue and an alcohol content of 14.5%. The wine's blend consists of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot. The wine is organically and biodynamically farmed.
James Suckling rated this wine a 98, noting its "complex nose of blueberries, elderberries, dried fruit, spice, and dark chocolate." He described it as full-bodied with a "harmonious, balanced texture" and highlighted the firm yet balanced tannins, advising to try it after 2024. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also awarded it a 98, praising its "atomic perfume of raspberry pie, blackcurrant pastilles, rose oil, and Chinese five spice." Lisa Perrotti-Brown detailed its "hedonist's dream" palate, describing it as rich and layered with a firm yet plush texture, capable of evolving over three decades.
Jeff Leve gave the wine a near-perfect score of 99, emphasizing its inky color and intense concentration of "rich, deep, opulent, black, and red fruits." He recommended aging it for another decade, predicting its excellence for at least two to three more decades. Decanter rated it 96, appreciating its "dark and knitted" fruit quality, creamy texture, and menthol finish. However, they noted a slight over-concentration with hints of prune on the finish.
Jeb Dunnuck scored it 97+, remarking on its "dense purple hue" and "loads of blue and black fruits, damp earth, tobacco, candied violets, and graphite-laced aromas and flavors." He advised that it would require a decade of bottle age. Vinous, also rating it 98, called it "a freak of nature" with "off the charts richness" and "phenomenal balance." Antonio Galloni praised its "silkiest of tannins" and "phenomenally pure, long finish."
Wine Enthusiast matched the 98 score, highlighting the wine's combination of "richness of the vintage with a sophisticated structure of smoky tannins and spicy wood aging." Roger Voss recommended drinking it from 2028. Jane Anson, who rated it 96, remarked on its "powerful concentration" and "gourmet feel," noting the challenges of the vintage with small yields due to mildew. Lastly, The Wine Independent rated it 97, describing it as "velvety and generous" with "flamboyant, floral-laced black fruits."
In summary, the 2018 Pontet-Canet is a critically acclaimed Bordeaux Blend known for its complexity, rich flavors, and potential for aging. It has garnered high praise from multiple reviewers, making it a noteworthy choice for wine enthusiasts.