Château Pichon Longueville Baron, 2ème Cru Classé, Pauillac, 2009
Despite the proximity, the two Pichons are stylistically a world apart. That is not to say that one is better than the other, this is down to personal preference. Pichon Longueville (Baron) is the flagship estate in the AXA empire, and there seems to be a clear decision to produce modern, sexy wines here. Expressive, really perfumed, polished Pauillac bouquet. This possesses stunning texture; ripe cassis attack, fresh, intense and velvety textured. Baron 2009 is almost thick such is its opulence, yet it still retains sufficient lift and structure to balance the mass of fruit. An impressive Baron.
critic reviews
Crayon, cigar and cedarwood aromatics, relatively subdued because this is tightly packed with still-chewy tannins, but there is so much waiting underneath. Give this another few years, or a good few hours in a carafe, to fully appreciate how the dense brambly fruits unroll and expand outwards through the palate. Great quality, with muscular tannins that ensure the ripe fruit remains engaged and at the very beginning of their life. An exceptionally successful wine. 80% new oak. Jean-René Matignon technical director.
The 2009 Pichon-Baron replicates its epic performance at the vertical tasted last year. It has one of the finest bouquets among the group of Pauillac with copious blackberry, mint, melted tar and graphite notes, fresh and supremely well focused. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, very well judged acidity. Harmonious with plenty of tobacco and pencil lead infused black fruit towards the persistent finish. Awesome. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners’ 2009 Bordeaux tasting.