2017 Pichon Comtesse Reserve de la Comtesse, Pauillac, Bordeaux (375ml)

Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande enjoys an iconic status among Bordeaux lovers. The estate is a Second Growth estate from the 1855 Bordeaux classification and is situated in Pauillac on Bordeaux's Left Bank. Located next to Château Latour and near St Julien, its attractive château is visible from the D2 road. Originally part of a larger estate with Château Pichon Baron, it was split in 1850. Managed by Madame May-Eliane de Lencquesaing from 1978 to the mid-2000s, it now belongs to the Rouzaud family of Champagne Louis Roederer. The 80-hectare estate is overseen by talented winemaker Nicolas Glumineau, who also manages Château de Pez in St Estèphe. Why do we like it? The Reserve de la Comtesse is certainly an impressive second wine. The palate is understated but intense, with plenty of juicy, soft red fruits. Nicolas Glumineau professes himself not to be a fan of Petit Verdot in his grand vin, but here it adds a very useful savoury dimension. The mid-palate is spectacular with velvety tannins and mocha/toasty oak at the finish. A delightful marriage between power and elegance. Grape            Cabernet Blends Country        France                                  Region          Bordeaux                                        Vintage         2017