Chateau Pichon Baron   Pichon Baron

2011 Pichon Baron

By Chateau Pichon Baron

2011 Pichon Baron from Château Pichon Baron, Pauillac, Bordeaux

The challenging climatic conditions of the 2011 vintage in Bordeaux did not dissuade the grand Pauillac estate of Château Pichon Baron from producing a wine with a distinctive character and alluring constitution. As we delve into the depths of its complex persona, it is evident that this rich blend of predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, with hues of Merlot and a smattering of Petit Verdot, is standing tall amid the trials imparted by its birth year.

 

A Study in Elegance and Tenacity

The maturity journey for the 2011 Pichon Baron has been an odyssey of evolution. On the palate, the fruits have transitioned towards darker spectrums with blackcurrants, plums and a hint of cigar box—a nod to an impeccable upbringing in solid French oak barrels. Refinement is key; despite the vintage's inherent austerity, this noble wine pirouettes with grace, flaunting structured tannins and a measured amplitude on the palate.

 

Investment Worthy: A Vibrant Addition to Any Portfolio

Investors seeking wines with robust aging potential will be delighted to note that due to the firm backbone and vibrant acid line, this 2011 Pichon Baron has entered its window of approachability yet prophecies a long plateau of maturity. The wine's presentation - a balance between power and finesse - is an embodiment of what dedicated winemaking can achieve even when nature presents a challenge.

A treasure from Pauillac, this vintage stands as testimony that even in less heralded years, meticulous vineyard management and astute cellar practices can result in wines worth coveting. Elegantly chiseled, it articulates not just the soul of its terroir but also captures a fragment of time within its bottled confines.

In sum, the 2011 Pichon Baron from Château Pichon Baron vouchsafes its stature as one of the dignified expressions from Bordeaux's left bank. A testament to resilience — a must-consider for collectors seeking gems with storied provenance in their investment compositions. Encompassing both longevity and layered sophistication chewable now or bankable for future indulgence - this wine demonstrates that the artistry pauses not at what nature delivers but at what wise craft commands.

Market price (GBP)

£1,130.00

12x75cl

Highest score

94

POP score

80.71

Scores and tasting notes

93-95

A blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Merlot picked from 12th September until 28th or something (according to a vague Mr. Seely.) It sports a ripe, more extrovert nose than some of its neighbours, with lush blackberry, boysenberry, a touch of cherry liqueur and underneath, typical Pauillac traits of graphite and tobacco. Leaving the glass for five minutes it unwinds nicely and shows great purity. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins on the entry, good grip and weight, a 2011 with real substance and chutzpah. The more I leave this in my glass, the more I like it. Very harmonious with layers of ripe blackberry and a touch of white pepper, the finish forgetting it is 2011 and not 2009. This is an outstanding Pichon Baron for the vintage. Tasted three times with consistent notes. Tasted April 2012.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2012

93

Very pretty aromas of currants and blueberries with hints of flowers. Full body with silky tannins and a fruity finish. Refined. Very polished tannins.

James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, April 1st 2012

91

Its bigger, more famous sibling, the 2011 Pichon Longueville Baron exhibits a dense ruby/purple color, an opulent mouthfeel for a 2011, silky tannins and no hard edges. Medium-bodied and well-endowed, it is a major success in this vintage. It should hit its stride in 3-4 years and last for 15+.

Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #212 Apr 2014

Vintage performance