1999 Pichon Baron
By Chateau Pichon Baron
1999 Pichon Baron from Château Pichon Baron, Pauillac, Bordeaux
The 1999 vintage from the esteemed vineyards of Château Pichon Baron has long been etched in my memory as a wine that encapsulates the term 'vintage charm.' With two decades of careful cellaring, it has emerged like a distinguished gentleman, poised and commanding respect.
Precious Provenance, Masterful Vinification
Pauillac is home to some of the most illustrious estates in Bordeaux, with the 1999 Pichon Baron standing as testament to this appellation's ability to produce wines of remarkable complexity and longevity. The harvest of '99 was an exercise in precision, skirting meteorological setbacks that plagued other regions—an effort that is today deeply woven into each sip of this venerable creation.
Fashioned predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of Merlot, this blend sings harmoniously of its terroir. Time has mellowed its once vigorous tannins to a suave silkiness that glides across the palate, suggesting that now is an opportune moment for fine wine investors to uncork or procure this vintage.
Distinctive Elegance of a Matured Pauillac
What strikes me particularly about the 1999 Pichon Baron is its bouquet—still redolent with vibrant notes of blackcurrant and leather but now ennobled with hints of cedar and tobacco leaf. The palate continues this symphony; layered complexity with an elegant balance of fruit and earthy forest floor undertones—a resonance reflective of the exceptional terroir of Pauillac.
The wine's evolution reveals a poised structure and a finish that lingers with grace—a joyful encore that entices another taste. It seems poised at the apex of maturity, indicating both readiness for enjoyment and potential for continued dignified ageing.
A Connoisseur’s Collection Cornerstone
In summary, the 1999 Pichon Baron exemplifies the virtues of time on classical Bordeaux blends. It stands as one part history, one part luxury craft—a blend tailor-made for those who invest emotionally as well as financially in their cellar treasures. A distinguished member of any connoisseur's collection, it is unquestionably a compelling candidate for further investment and enjoyment.
Market price (SGD)
$1,730.00
12x75cl
Highest score
90
POP score
104
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted at the 1999 horizontal at Bordeaux Index. A similar note to last month. Quite animally on the nose, a touch of sous-bois and with further aeration there is a slight estuarine accent. Good definition, a little more opulence than the Pichon-Lalande. The palate is medium-bodied, grainy tannins, broody black fruits, a hint of iodine, a touch of orange zest, great tension and vibrancy on the finish. Ostentatious, perhaps a little too showy, although admittedly
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2009
The dark ruby/purple-colored Pichon Longueville Baron reveals aromas of charcoal, black currants, and sweet toasty oak. This low acid, medium-bodied, charming, lush 1999 possesses good stuffing, ripe tannin, and a moderately long finish. Enjoy it now as well as over the next 10-12 years.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #140 April 2002