2016 Pichon Lalande
By Chateau Pichon Lalande
2016 Pichon Lalande from Chateau Pichon Lalande, Pauillac, Bordeaux
The storied terroir of Pauillac has provided the backdrop for another magisterial release with the 2016 Pichon Lalande from Chateau Pichon Lalande. A vintage that has had aficionados and investors alike murmuring in avid anticipation, 2016 heralded a growing season that was nothing short of a vigneron’s reverie.
The Connoisseur’s Choice: A Beacon of Bordeaux
Chateau Pichon Lalande’s distinctive approach to Bordeaux blends has always been evident in their wines’ allure, but it is in the elegant 2016 vintage that one can discern an embodiment of the sublime artisanship at play. The weather pattern of 2016, marked by a miraculous late-season dry spell, bestowed an impeccable harmony of ripeness and acidity, saturating each berry with concentrated potential.
A Vintage Defined by Harmony and Elegance
Upon decanting, the 2016 Pichon Lalande parades an astoundingly precise bouquet. Black currants interlace with graphite and a whisper of violet, forming a tapestry that is both alluring in its complexity and profound in its simplicity. On the palate, this wine unfolds delicately yet with conviction; the tannins are polished but assertive, ensuring a promising evolution ahead.
The wine's composition — an assemblage led by Cabernet Sauvignon with dollops of Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc — presents those privileged enough to partake in a sip with a frequency wherein every note strikes a flawless chord. It is exquisite now; however, it shall ascend to even greater heights with age.
The investment virtues of the 2016 Pichon Lalande cannot be overstated; positioned impeccably at an intersection of excellence and longevity, this offering from Chateau Pichon Lalande promises not just sensory indulgence but also investment sagacity. Indeed, it is widely noted as one of the standouts in what is regarded as a superlative year for Bordeaux — hinting strongly at its capacity for accruement in value over time. Thus for collectors seeking to augment their cellar with a wine destined for future eulogising, this singular vintage sedan should not be overlooked.Market price (USD)
$2,934.80
12x75cl
Highest score
98
POP score
133.56
Scores and tasting notes
The 2016 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is blended of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc aged for 18 months in 60% new oak. Deep purple-black in color, it is a little mute, slowly unfurling to reveal a core of crushed blackcurrants, blueberry compote and black raspberries with nuances of cinnamon stick, violets, star anise, menthol and pencil shavings plus a waft of fallen leaves. Medium-bodied and super intense in the mouth, the palate bursts with black fruits and savory layers, complemented by red fruit sparks and framed by fantastically ripe, fine-grained tannins, finishing very long with a lingering suggestion of minerality.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 30 November 2018
Linear and racy with ultra-fine tannins and a gorgeous center palate. Full-bodied, tight and so polished. The classicism and beauty are exceptional. Love the texture. Better than 2015?
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, April 4th 2017
Light savory and tobacco notes peek out from the core, but a ball of cassis and blackberry fruit is still coiled up with the strong iron spine. This is to be expected. Very pure, with a long finish. Risk-free cellaring.—J.M.
Wine Spectator - The Wine Spectator (James Molesworth)
Blackish crimson. Sweet start and much less obvious density than some, very Merlot and just a little soft. Super-supple certainly… But where's the beef?
Jancis Robinson - jancisrobinson.com