2006 Pontet Canet
By Chateau Pontet Canet
2006 Pontet Canet from Chateau Pontet Canet, Pauillac, Bordeaux
Reflecting on the extraordinary 2006 vintage from Pauillac, the 2006 Pontet Canet distinguishes itself with immense grace and vitality. In the lineage of vintages from Chateau Pontet Canet, this particular year heralds a character defined by its stellar balance and impressive longevity. Seldom does a wine so precisely encapsulate the essence of its terroir whilst maintaining an inkling of individuality that bespeaks its unique climatic influences.
A Testament to Timeless Terroir and Technique
Let us consider the natural conditions of 2006: a year marked by its climatic dichotomies. The dalliance between a hot summer and an unexpectedly cool September resulted in ripening that was both generous and controlled, leading to grapes plucked at peak perfection. The experience and expertise at Chateau Pontet Canet transformed these gifts of nature into a wine whose structure is both muscular and finessed.
Ripe Sophistication: A Promising Investment
The diligent transition to biodynamic practices prior to this vintage at Chateau Pontet Canet pays dividends in the glass: one can almost taste the commitment to purity and respect for the vineyard. The 2006 Pontet Canet presents a symphony of ripe blackcurrants, interwoven with subtle notes of cedar and spice, underpinned by a polished tannic structure that hints at remarkable aging potential – a desirable trait for those with an eye on wine investment.
As I revisit this compelling composition some 17 years on, it resonates with an enigmatic quality – a splendid convergence of fruits matured, yet vivacious against a backdrop of evolving secondary flavours. It is a testament to both terroir and time.
In summary, the 2006 Pontet Canet from Chateau Pontet Canet is not merely an echo from the storied terroirs of Pauillac but stands as an investment-worthy vintage that rings out for its discerning collectors. Its harmonious blend of Bordeaux tradition, coupled with organic innovation, secures its status as a significant addition to any connoisseur’s portfolio.
Market price (HKD)
HK$8,430.95
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
58.8
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted at Bordeaux Index’s Pontet-Canet dinner at The Ledbury. One of my favourite recent vintages, the 2006 is initially quite “strict” and “edgy” on the nose with cedar, blackberry and graphite but then manifests that opulence and almost braggadocio on the nose. The palate has a seriously good backbone, real structure and beguiling symmetry with a long grippy finish that suggests long-term ageing is a rule, not an option. Tasted February 2011.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Nov 2011
The 2006 is a wine to stockpile, especially for those in their thirties and forties as it needs another decade to reach maturity, after which it should keep for 30+ years. This vineyard, just south of Mouton Rothschild, has produced an opaque bluish/purple-colored 2006 with an extraordinarily pure nose of graphite, charcoal, sweet creme de cassis, and a hint of scorched earth. Incredible concentration, stunning richness, and a 60-second finish result in a wine that transcends the vintage as well as this estate’s 1855 classification. This enormously endowed, modern day classic is a legend in the making. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2050+. Enormous credit is due proprietor Alfred Tesseron for turning things around at this estate in 1994, and continuing to produce first-growth level wines. Pontet-Canet is one of the few bio-dynamically farmed vineyards in the Medoc, and Tesseron is such a perfectionist in both the vineyard and wine cellars that his nickname among other bordelais is “Monsieur Bonsai.”
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #181 Feb 2009
Tasted at Bordeaux Index's annual 10-Year On tasting in London. The 2006 Château Pontet-Canet has an extremely pure, vivacious, perfumed bouquet with crushed violets infusing the blueberry and blackberry fruit. But it is all about the detail and precision in this wine. The palate is medium-bodied with a gentle grip in the mouth: lightly toasted black fruit, dried orange peel, cedar and a pinch of white pepper. This feels very cohesive and poised with just a touch of mint entering right on the finish. What a great wine from Alfred Tesseron and Jean-Michel Comme. Go grab the corkscrew now, but don't feel that this wine has to be opened for another 5-6 years. Tasted January 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 29 May 2016
This red is now soft and fruity with plum, berry and mineral character. It’s full-bodied with fine tannins and a gorgeous finish. Drink or hold.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, July 1st 2013