2003 Pichon Baron
By Chateau Pichon Baron
2003 Pichon Baron from Château Pichon Baron, Pauillac, Bordeaux
One cannot weave the tale of 2003 within the vaunted confines of Bordeaux without speaking of the tremendous heatwave that swept Europe. It was a year of climatic extremes, creating unique challenges and yielding wines with equally distinctive characteristics. In this environment, the 2003 Pichon Baron from Château Pichon Baron stands as a testament to resilience, finesse, and exceptional winemaking.
An Exquisite Expression of Terroir and Tenacity
The Pauillac appellation in Bordeaux is heralded for its structured Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blends, a noble foundation upon which the 2003 vintage built its impressive stature. Roasted aromas interlaced with concentrated dark fruit notes bear witness to the sun-drenched terroir of this storied region. The tannins are pronounced yet possess an elegant softness that speaks to two decades of careful cellaring.
Investing in History: The 2003 Vintage
For the astute wine investor considering a vibrant addition to their portfolio, the 2003 Pichon Baron represents more than a superb addition—it's a slice of history. This vintage has defied expectations and continues to prove its longevity and grace under environmental pressure. It is a shining emblem among Pauillac collectibles.
A glass unveils nuances of cassis and cedar box—a mingling that encapsulates the zenith of old-world charm. Bridled power and subtlety are companions in this vintage; robust flavors are tempered by mature, silken layers developed over time.
When contemplating investment-worthy wines, the 2003 Pichon Baron is a standout ensemble of place, time, and human endeavor. As it graces decanters or lies in wait within collectors' vaults, it remains perennially relevant—a celebration of both a remarkable vintage and Château Pichon Baron's indomitable spirit.
Summation: A Connoisseur’s Collectible
In epitomizing the resilience and richness afforded by the sun-saturated soils of 2003, this Pichon Baron from Château Pichon Baron not only exemplifies an exceptional investment opportunity but also narrates a tale of endurance, a hallmark trait sought by connoisseurs and collectors alike. It's an enticing call to those who appreciate the depth and diversity inherent in Bordeaux's storied vintages.
Market price (CAD)
$2,290.00
12x75cl
Highest score
96
POP score
86.25
Scores and tasting notes
Sweet tobacco and plum with hints of leather and cassis on the nose. Full bodied, with big velvety tannins and lots of fruit. Very rich and powerful, even chewy. Give this some time to mellow out. Pull the cork after 2016.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, March 14th 2011
Tasted at Bordeaux Index's "10-Year On" tasting in London. The Pichon Baron '03 has a well-defined bouquet with composed blackberry, briary, graphite and a subtle note of mint. It has calmed down in recent years having lost its puppy fat. The palate is medium-bodied with a ripe gamey entry. There is a pastel like purity here, actually more like Pichon-Lalande in style towards the pointed, meat-tinged finish. This has always been a very commendable Pauillac from Mr. Seely and his team. Tasted March 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2013
This is a brilliantly run property year in and year out, and especially since the mid- to late 1980s has produced one of the top four or five wines made in Pauillac in virtually every vintage. With 13.4% alcohol, the 2003 is one of the most powerful efforts this chateau has ever made. Its dense purple color is accompanied by sweet, jammy creme de cassis notes intermixed with roasted herbs, smoked meats, and chocolate. Although ripe, dense, full-bodied, and moderately tannic, it is silky (because of its low acidity and high glycerin) as well as accessible. It should firm up in the bottle, and be at its peak between 2008-2025.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #164 April 2006