2000 Pichon Lalande
By Chateau Pichon Lalande
The 2000 Pichon Lalande from Chateau Pichon Lalande, Pauillac, Bordeaux
A millennium vintage in Bordeaux often comes with sky-high expectations, and the 2000 Pichon Lalande from Chateau Pichon Lalande not only meets but surpasses these hopes with verve. My affection for the wines of Pauillac has been well-documented over the years—this appellation produces structured, long-lived wines that are cherished by collectors and enthusiasts alike. The turn of the century offering from Chateau Pichon Lalande is a wine that harbours both the classical austerity one expects from a grand Pauillac and a charismatic flair that defines this particular millésime.
An Exceptional Ensemble: Climate and Craftsmanship
The 2000 vintage was given a head start by a warm April, encouraging early flowering, which set the scene for an excellent growth cycle. The summer was particularly dry, providing optimal conditions for the grapes to ripen fully, thus intensifying their flavours without succumbing to overripeness—a delicate balancing act skilfully navigated by the vignerons at Chateau Pichon Lalande.
This balance manifests in the glass with a profound bouquet of ripe black currants and cedar, embroidered with subtle hints of tobacco and violets. The usual suspects of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are complemented by touches of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, creating an ensemble that resonates with complexity yet sings in harmony.
A Promising Prospect for Astute Investors
Investors seeking to diversify their portfolios with prime wines would do well to consider the 2000 Pichon Lalande. This vintage harmonises immediate allure with long-term ageing potential—attributes which underpin its desirability within secondary markets. It remains one of the most intriguing offerings from Chateau Pichon Lalande this side of the millennium.
In summary, the 2000 Pichon Lalande stands as a paragon of its excellent vintage year. It encapsulates the essence of Pauillac's terroir, delivered through a season favoured by providence. This wine is truly an investment-worthy treasure, promising to grace cellars and palate with increasing depth and sophistication as years accrue—and thereby firmly securing its prestigious standing among discerning investors and aficionados alike.
Market price (GBP)
£2,630.00
12x75cl
Highest score
96
POP score
164.38
Scores and tasting notes
Sitting next to my former colleague, Pierre Antoine Rovani, at one of the tastings, he commented that he didn’t like the striking green note in the aromatics of this wine, which I didn’t detect at all, and a subsequent bottle at another tasting did not reveal it either. I do think there is a hint of bay leaf and a meatiness to it. In short, I find this to be a spectacular Pichon Lalande. Dense purple in color, with loads of coffee, mocha, creme de cassis, and chocolate notes, this is a somewhat unusual blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, and a whooping 10% Petit Verdot, with a little bit of Cabernet Franc. The Petit Verdot certainly gives the wine more of a tapenade, floral note, which I think can be interpreted by some as herbal. This is a rich, opulent, stunning Pichon Lalande that is beginning to drink beautifully, yet should continue to improve for at least another 10-15 years and last 30 or more years.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 28 June 2010
Lot of currants and berries with a slightly stewed-fruit character. It’s full and round with soft tannins and a fruity finish. Needs to be decanted an hour or two before serving. Succulent wine.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, July 1st 2013