Wine Advocate
par Robert Parker le 28/04/2010
The blend for the 2009 Pichon Lalande is dominated
by Cabernet Sauvignon, somewhat unusual at this
estate which usually has more Merlot in the blend. As
stated previously, the Cabernet Sauvignon reached
levels of ripeness and intensity of flavor in 2009 never
seen before in Bordeaux! The final blend of 75%
Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot
and a pH of 3.8 combines the best of a vintage such
as 1996, in terms of structure, freshness, and
precision, with the best of 1982, in terms of opulence,
power, unctuosity, and thickness. The opaque purplecolored
2009 exhibits an intoxicatingly intense nose of
red and black fruits, subtle smoke, charcoal, forest
floor, and a hint of flowers. Unusually full-bodied for a
wine from this estate as well as unctuously textured,
voluptuous, and incredibly pure and precise, this
dazzling wine should be drinkable at an early age, and
evolve for 30+ years. (Tasted once.)
Like most Medoc chateaux, Pichon Lalande began
their harvest on September 22, and finished on
October 7. Drink 2010-2040.