Chateau Pontet-Canet 2004

A Pauillac red wine with persistent aromas

A 5ème cru classé produced in the Pauillac appellation, Château Pontet-Canet benefits from a vineyard of 81 hectares. Aged 40 to 45 years on average, the vines are planted on gravelly soils of the Quaternary. The aging of the wine, which lasts 16 months on average, is carried out in oak barrels (of which 60% are new barrels).

The Château Pontet-Canet 2004 displays a deep red color, almost opaque, even. Intense, the nose combines spices, complexity and refinement, developing aromas of red and black fruits (blackberries, Morello cherries), licorice, coffee and vanilla. While the attack in the mouth is full, the evolution is long and tasty. The wine offers a finish with juicy tannins, as well as a beautiful aromatic persistence.

Wine Advocate-Parker :
Tasted at the Pontet-Canet vertical in London, it seems clear that the 2004 Château Pontet-Canet is predestined to always fall under the shadow of the 2005. Don't overlook this gem. The bouquet delivers pure blackberry, pencil lead and tobacco notes that are more generous than the 2005 at the momentùopen for business, you might say. There is an element of dried herbs here, a hint of black tar. The palate is medium-bodied and quite sturdy in the mouth, the tannins perhaps abrasive when juxtaposed against the 2005, however they are couched in unexpectedly intense earthy black fruit that frame a tannic finish. If you hanker for a sumptuous Pontet-Canet, then opt for 2003 or 2009, but if your predilection is for a more classic Pauillac, then 2004 Pontet-Canet fits the bill. Undoubtedly a great wine from Alfred Tesseron for the vintage, I would start, broaching bottles now but keep a stash back for 4-5 years' time when those tannins have softened. Tasted February 2016.