2008 Ch. Pontet-Canet, Pauillac

Ch Pontet-Canet is still finding its way along the thorny path of biodynamic viticulture but in 2008 owner Alfred Tesseron was able to make a 100% biodynamic wine. Very attractive, this is full of creamy, blackcurrant fruit with grainy, ripe tannins and generous weight. Layers of fruit swell across the palate whilst the finish is refreshing and full of concentrated fruit with a touch of spice. If not quite as incredible as the 2007, this would nonetheless be a worthy addition to any cellar.

Nobody in Bordeaux is more attentive to detail than Alfred Tesseron is at Pontet-Canet. Fashioned from incredibly low yields, a very late harvest, and a Draconian selection, the 2008 will not be close to drinkability for at least a decade... An absolutely amazing effort, it boasts an extraordinary bouquet of creme de cassis, graphite, charcoal, and incense, blockbuster depth, and full-bodied power. The tannins are high, but they are remarkably velvety. Sensational acidity gives the wine precision and vibrancy, but the impression is one of massive concentration and power. The 2008 Pontet-Canet, a candidate for the wine of the vintage, is a tour de force in viticultural precision and winemaking savoir faire.
(Robert Parker- Wine Advocate - Apr 09)

Cask sample. Notably deep crimson. Very firm and with the scent of good-quality oak. Hint of dark chocolate. Very vibrant. Still even slightly fizzy! Very good constitution. Toasty. Appetising. Tesseron claims this wine in particular benefited from how close they are now to the vineyard thanks to the Biodynamic practices.
(Jancis Robinson – www.jancisrobinson.com – Jan 10)

Expressive dark fruit and sweet citrus freshness. Deep and mouthfilling, deep pile tannins, finishing fresh and satisfying. Plenty of freshness on the finish.
(Julia Harding MW - jancisrobinson.com - Apr 09)

Very dark and brilliant in color, showing wonderful pure fruit, with crushed blackberry, currant and fresh-cut flowers. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long, crisp, fruity finish. This offers impressive finesse and length.
(James Suckling - Wine Spectator - Apr-2009)

Black-red, finely concentrated blackcurrants nose, really fine depth of fruit on the palate, a wine with both power and breed, very expressive, masses of fruit, concentration and potentially complex flavours, while retaining totally focussed vineyard fruit. Very good wine. Drink 2017-35
(Decanter - Apr-2009)