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 2023 Pontet-Canet, a majestic Bordeaux blend from the celebrated wine region of Pauillac, France, is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of its esteemed producer, Pontet-Canet. This red wine, cloaked in a rich, deep garnet-purple hue, marries strength with elegance, showcasing the characteristic complexity of this revered varietal.

The intoxicating bouquet of this wine is a symphony of luscious dark fruit notes, with juicy blueberries, black cherries, and blackcurrant jelly taking the forefront. These succulent aromas are accented by delicate hints of violets, black truffle, fertile loam, and mossy tree bark, with an unexpected whisper of cardamom adding an intriguing dimension to the overall olfactory experience.

Upon the palate, the 2023 Pontet-Canet reveals a medium-bodied, silky texture that is both elegant and refined. The layers of perfumed black and blue fruit are underscored by a beautiful tension, culminating in a lingering finish marked by shimmery mineral and floral nuances. This wine's blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot has been matured in a combination of 50% new oak barrels, 35% amphorae, and 15% once-used barrels, resulting in a wine that is harmonious and balanced.

The remarkable structure of this wine, as noted by revered critics such as James Suckling and Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, is a testament to the meticulous and daring harvest decisions of the vintner. The Merlot was harvested earlier to highlight fresh, fruity notes, while the Cabernet Sauvignon harvest was delayed until after September 28 to refine the tannins. This daring approach has resulted in a wine of unprecedented aromatic intensity and precision, marking a significant evolution in the winemaking process at Pontet-Canet.

The 2023 Pontet-Canet is undoubtedly a collector's gem, with its compelling complexity, impressive structure, and exquisite balance promising a wine that will continue to evolve and captivate for many years to come.