1982 Pontet Canet
By Chateau Pontet Canet
1982 Pontet Canet from Chateau Pontet Canet, Pauillac, Bordeaux
In the lexicon of Bordeaux vintages, the storied year of 1982 stands as a watershed moment, a legendary harvest that bestowed upon us wines of profound depth and extraordinary longevity. Within this pantheon, the 1982 Pontet Canet from Chateau Pontet Canet occupies a distinguished place, its evolution over the decades a testament to the exceptional terroir of Pauillac.
Vintage Majesty: An Investor's Delight
The 1982 Pontet Canet unveils itself as a vintage driven by both climatic benevolence and vinicultural acumen. That particular harvest benefitted from exceptionally warm conditions, bestowing grape clusters with optimal ripeness. The season’s warmth advanced phenolic maturity without sacrificing the essential balance, leading to wines like this that exhibit both muscle and grace. Chateau Pontet Canet, with its meticulous estate management, translated these conditions into one of Pauillac's most compelling narratives in a bottle.
On approaching the 1982 Pontet Canet now, one is mesmerized by how it has maintained its aristocratic bearing. Possessing a substantial structure that has softened into an assured elegance over time, it curates classic notes of cassis, intertwined with graphite and tobacco - hallmarks of an exemplary Pauillac claret yet charged with the distinctive energy of this heralded year.
To sip the 1982 from Chateau Pontet Canet today is to indulge in Bordeaux history. Its regal disposition has mellowed to unveil layers of complexity; truffle and cedarwood enlace with dark fruit remnants, and a tertiary bouquet that continues to bloom in the glass. Its provenance and pedigree make it not only an asset for those seeking finesse in their wine investment but also ensure its continued prestige.
In summary, as we look towards augmenting portfolios with fine wines that have stood the test of time, we find in the 1982 Pontet Canet an illustrious choice that merges admirable heritage with enduring allure. This vintage remains as much an expression of Pauillac potency as it is a coveted asset for investors and connoisseurs alike. In its prime now or held for future gratification, it is undeniably one of the pinnacles of investment-worthy wines from Bordeaux's annals.Market price (GBP)
£2,080.00
12x75cl
Highest score
88
POP score
260
Scores and tasting notes
A solidly made effort, the 1982 Pontet Canet reveals some pink at the edge, but it remains a medium-bodied wine offering hints of menthol and red as well as black currants. Although it lacks concentration, the sensuality and suppleness provided by the vintage character are still appealing. It is best consumed over the next 3-4 years. Release price: ($120.00/case)
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #183 June 2009
Tasted at the Pontet-Canet vertical in London. The nose is quite simple for a 1982, cedar, graphite, a touch of sandalwood and antique bureau. The problem is that is lacks vigour compared to the 1990. The palate is medium-bodied, quite sharp acidity on the entry, relatively simple and lacking some backbone towards the finish. This actually tastes over-cropped, touches of dates towards the finish. Drink now-2013. Tasted May 2009.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jan 2010
Tasted at the Pontet-Canet vertical in London—to be frank, I have never been a fan of the 1982 Château Pontet-Canet—this wine is a testament to how far the estate has traveled under Alfred Tesseron and Jean-Michel Comme. It is a long way behind its peers. Now it has a dry, rather skeletal bouquet with a disagreeable dustiness. You can hear the slam of the door...that's the last of the fruit exiting. The palate is now dominated by dry tannins. There is a hole where the 1982 fruit ought to be (and it was there a decade ago), although there is a modicum of redeeming freshness towards the finish. Your safest bet is to drink any bottles remaining, and load up on a more recent and superior vintage. Tasted February 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 July 2016