2006 Pichon Lalande
By Chateau Pichon Lalande
2006 Pichon Lalande from Chateau Pichon Lalande, Pauillac, Bordeaux
In the annals of Bordeaux, the 2006 vintage is often overshadowed by its immediate predecessors; yet, there exists a compelling narrative for discerning collectors and investors in the form of the 2006 Pichon Lalande from Chateau Pichon Lalande. This particular year tells a story of resilience and deft craftsmanship against a backdrop of climatic challenge.
A Robust Contender in a Temperamental Climate
The season was marked by an erratic climate, culminating in a hot and dry September that rescued the harvest. These conditions could have led to wines lacking finesse, but not so with the 2006 Pichon Lalande. The estate's adept management of their exceptional terroir resulted in a blend of richness and elegance that astute investors would be wise to observe. Unlike its more tannic contemporaries from the same vintage, this wine offers an unexpected suppleness, celebrating the Cabernet Sauvignon's structural integrity without dominating the ensemble.
A Vintage That Defies Expectations
With a bouquet that uncoils hints of dark cherries and earthy truffles, the 2006 Pichon Lalande commands attention. On the palate, it unfolds layers of ripe cassis, smoky oak, and refined spices—a testament to its adroit ageing potential. The nuance of graphite and tobacco draws out a finish that reassures one of its noble lineage and Pauillac pedigree.
Among those who seek to expand their portfolios with wines offering grace under pressure, this vintage deserves careful consideration. It's an intelligent addition for both its drinking calibre and value appreciation trajectory within the fine wine investment sphere.
Decanting Investment Wisdom with Each Sip
The 2006 Pichon Lalande remains a standout choice for the connoisseur who appreciates undercurrents of complexity. Its investment appeal lies not merely in rarity but in the sophisticated expression of a challenging vintage mastered by Chateau Pichon Lalande's vineyard prowess and vinicultural sorcery. Indeed, while it may not boast the immediate exuberance of more acclaimed years, it delights in its nuanced maturity—a vintage that will continue to unfold its narrative with enduring elegance for those patient enough to listen.
Market price (USD)
$1,600.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
87.33
Scores and tasting notes
The 2006 Pichon Lalande, which blows away the 2005, represents a return to the velvety-textured, rich, sexy style most readers would associate with Pichon Lalande. This blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and 36% Merlot no Petit Verdot was included in the final blend exhibits a dense purple color as well as abundant aromas of chocolate, coffee, cedar, black currants, and a subtle touch of smoke, a rich, savory, full-bodied mouthfeel, plump, fleshy fruit, and a superb finish. This is a 21st century version of the brilliant 1996. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2030. One of the major disappointments in 2005 was Pichon Lalande, but the change in ownership, with the Roederer/Deutz champagne firm taking control in 2006, resulted in a very severe selection being instituted, only 41% of the production went into the grand vin.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #181 Feb 2009
Tasted at the property, the 2006 Château Pichon-Lalande has a voluminous bouquet with outgoing blackberry, cassis and violets scents, a touch of boysenberry jam tucked just underneath, although it does not quite have the delineation of the Lynch Bages. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin. This feels very composed in the mouth, quite fresh with well-judged acidity, harmonious and tensile on the finish. This deserves a higher score than I awarded out of barrel and it continues to improve year by year. Tasted April 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 29 May 2016
Tasted blind at Southwold ’06 Bordeaux tasting. This is much more closed on the nose: blackberry and graphite…very tightly coiled at present. The palate is full-bodied with saturated tannins, very pure and viscous, modern style winemaking but there is wonderful balance and focus, leading to a sumptuous, structured finish with tinctures of damson, apricot and raisin counterpoising the austere Cabernet. This is a long-term Pichon-Lalande that may ultimately outclass the ’05. Tasted January 2010.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Sep 2010