Château Pichon Comtesse de Lalande, 2ème Cru Classé, Pauillac, 2013

Nicolas Glumineau should be very pleased with his handiwork in 2013. Pichon refer to it as a 'historic year' and the start of a 'new era' at this noble second growth estate. This is the inaugural vintage produced at their wonderful, state of the art vat room. Along with Montrose, this was our favourite non First Growth from the Medoc. It is a tremendous 100% Cabernet Sauvignon wine. Sadly only 2500 cases will be produced as a severe selection has lowered yields to levels that Roederer would never like to see again (13hl/ha). There has been no compromise. The nose is deeply mineral and complex with brooding black fruits interspersed with flowers, cranberries, notes of tobacco smoke and cedar. There is a wonderful tight knit core of juicy crème de cassis, sweet griotte, mulberry jam and lacy minerals. This is so complete and correct; firm, taut, muscular and very very charming. We hope it is affordable, because it's a wine we'd all like to buy. A sensational, smart Pichon which finishes with violets and effortless lift. Chapeau Nicolas!