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.

The 2019 Pontet-Canet is a captivating Bordeaux blend that showcases the artistry and elegance of this renowned French winery. With a deep red color that shimmers in the glass, this wine is a visual delight that hints at the sensory journey to come.

On the nose, the aromas are enchanting, with a bouquet that combines plummy fruit, kirsch, dried herbs, and peonies. This complex blend of scents creates a symphony of fragrances that invite you to explore further. As you take your first sip, you are greeted with a full-bodied and seamless experience. The wine is ample and generous, caressing your palate with melting tannins and succulent acids.

The 2019 Pontet-Canet is a wine that defies expectations. In a blind tasting, one might be inclined to place it in Gigondas rather than Pauillac, showcasing its unique character and stylistic diversity. It is a wine that challenges the notion of "typicité" and pushes the boundaries of what a Cabernet-based blend from Bordeaux can achieve.

With an alcohol percentage of 13.5%, this wine is well-balanced and harmonious. It spent a portion of its maturation in amphorae, which contributes to its idiosyncratic identity. This attention to detail in the winemaking process is evident in every sip.

Renowned wine critics have showered this vintage with praise. James Suckling awarded it an impressive 99 points, describing it as "fabulous" and "an absolute joy to taste." Decanter gave it a score of 98 points, praising its "gorgeous aromatics" and "restrained power." Wine Enthusiast also awarded it 98 points, highlighting its "perfumed" and "refined" fruit.

The 2019 Pontet-Canet is a wine that promises a long life and rewards patience. While it can be enjoyed now, it will continue to evolve and develop its flavors over time. It is a wine that exemplifies the artistry and craftsmanship of Pontet-Canet, and a testament to the beauty of Bordeaux blends.