CHÃTEAU PONTET-CANET: A SUPER SECOND FROM TWO SUPER VINTAGES
Pontet-Canet is not exactly a producer that one would call obscure. While they are technically classified as fifth growth of Paullac, they are one of the most recognizable producers of the region and have been a driving force over the last two decades in the utilization of organic and biodynamic viticulture and vinification (certified in both). This is extremely impressive especially in Bordeaux, given that this extremely variable maritime climate is known for its struggles with fungal diseases. In spite of the challenges, Pontet-Canet proceeds to move forward in a bold way, continuing to innovate and improve in both cellar and vineyard. Whatever they are doing is definitely working; Pontet Canet has garnered incredible acclaim in recent vintages, and now clearly sits with other elite Super-Second properties in Bordeaux.
We have two outstanding vintages on offer tonight, 2002 and 2015, each of which are perfect examples of Pontet-Canet's signature style. The 2015 vintage in Bordeaux is considered an excellent one, with a warm summer, but cooler and slightly more damp August which allowed for even fruit ripening and high quality and consistency of fruit at harvest.This is evident in this particular bottle of wine: It is rich and succulent with complexity, texture, and incredibly ageability, along with some oak usage to round out the wine and soften the tannins. A wine of power, the 2015 Pontet Canet brims with velvet fruit and minerality coating its muscular frame. The 2002 is obviously the more mature and aged example, but it is still singing beautifully. Expect the fruit to have dried some and developed some lovely earthy notes of dried tobacco, leather, and mint, Pontet-Canet is the perfect wine for Napa drinkers who are looking to dip their toes into the proverbial Bordeaux waters but beware - once you are hooked you may never go back! - MEG VAN TIL
