The 2015 vintage of Chateau Pontet Canet is an excellent example of a classic Bordeaux blend. This wine was crafted from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot grapes grown on the estate's vineyards laid out in the Pauillac appellation. The blend is aged in French oak barrels for 18 months before bottling.
This vintage has a deep ruby color with aromas of blackberry, cassis and spice. On the palate, it is rich and full-bodied with flavors of ripe red fruits and sweet spices. The tannins are well integrated, provding structure and balance to the long finish.
Pontet Canet is an historic estate that dates back to 1720 when Pierre de Pontet purchased lands in the Pauillac commune to create vineyards. In 1855, Chateau Pontet Canet was ranked as Fifth Growth by the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification and since then has become an extremely popular brand amongst the ‘Super Seconds'. The estate consistently produces wines of outstanding quality that are highly sought afer by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The 2015 vintage has already been praised by critics for its remarkable quality and it will only continue to improve over time as it ages gracefully in bottle. It is a great example of how a classic Bordeaux blend shold taste like, offering great complexity combined with finesse and elegance – making it a must-have for any avid collector's cellar!
When is the Best Time to Drink Pontet Canet?
For optimal enjoyment, it is recommended to wait until Chateau Pontet Canet has aged for 10-12-15 years. This aging process allows the high levels of tannins and intense concentration in the wine to soften and develop more complex flavors. Decanting for several hours prior to drinking can also help further enhance the flavor profile.
The Transition of Pontet Canet to Organic Winemaking
In 2010, Chateau Pontet Canet became the first major Bordeaux wine producer to earn the official Agence Bio (AB) organic certification. This milestone marked a significant shift in the region towrds environmentally friendly practices, as it showed that large-scale producers could successfully adopt organic winemaking methods. The certification was awarded after Pontet Canet implemented a range of sustainable measures such as removing chemical fertilizers from their vineyards and using natural compost to supplement soil nutrients. By committing to an organic approach, Pontet Canet demonstrated a commitment to producing quality wines sustainably and supporting the local ecosystem.
The Fifth Growth of Pontet Canet: Which Commune?
Chateau Pontet Canet is a Fifth Growth, acording to the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855. Located in the Pauillac commune of the Médoc region, the estate has been producing wines for hundreds of years. The estate consists of vine parcels across both Pauillac and Canet, with a terroir composed of gravel soils on limestone subsoil. The vineyards are planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Pontet Canet produces wines with generous aromatics and bold tannins, perfect for aging.
Is Château Pontet-Canet Biodynamic?
Yes, Château Pontet-Canet is a biodynamic estate. The estate was the frst Grand Cru of the Médoc to convert to organic and biodynamic agriculture in 2010. Biodynamic agriculture is an innovative approach to farming that uses specific methods and natural ingredients to promote soil fertility, ecological balance, and help sustain the environment. It is rooted in Rudolf Steiner's philosophies on harmonizing with nature and is considered an advanced form of organic farming. The biodynamic process involves working with the lunar cycle, using herbal and mineral preparations, composting, crop rotation, and other natural techniques that promote healthy growth of vines and grapes. At Pontet-Canet, the biodynamic approach has allowed them to produce high quality wines year after year while protecting the environment from chemical inputs.
Conclusion
Chateau Pontet Canet 2015 is an outstanding example of a Bordeaux wine, made with organic and biodynamic practices. This vintage offers intense aromas and flavors of blackberry, cassis, and leather, as well as complex notes of tobacco, graphite, and earth. The balance of acidity, tannins and fruit are near perfect. It is a full-bodied wine that will benefit from several years in the cellar to truly come into its own. This vintage will make an excellent investment for those looking for a fifth growth Bordeaux to add to their collection.
