16 Jun 2021

The release of any new vintage of Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is an event, but doubly so when it comes with a potentially perfect score of 98-100 points, this year from Jeb Dunnuck.  This is an estate that seems to have been able to do no wrong over a string of recent vintages.  Perhaps part of the magic lies in the awareness that this is an over-performing château, a Deuxième Cru which consistently equals the First Growths in quality. 

More materially, its success relies on a potent mix of investment in the winery, brilliant leadership by Nicholas Glumineau, and a superb location, just a brief stroll from Latour.  This is also one occasion on which having 'feet of clay' is a positive, with the higher than usual proportion of clay soils in the terroir helping to retain water in warmer vintages such as 2018, '19 and now '20.

Despite the warmth of the growing season, Neal Martin finds the 2020 has a coolness and a classical style, describing it as a "magnificent, cerebral Pichon-Lalande" (96-98 points).  With long-ageing potential, this is unquestionably a wine with investment potential or an amazing addition to your own cellar.  With very limited availability, we suggest acting straight away if you would like to order. 

Bordeaux En Primeur, landing in spring 2023

To order, e-mail us at sales@richardkihl.ltd.uk

 

Producer Profile

Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande

Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is a Deuxième Cru Classé estate in the commune of Pauillac.  There are many striking things about visiting Pichon Lalande, but one of them is the proximity of Latour...it is easier to walk between these two Pauillac estates than to drive. 

Owned since 2006 by the Rouzaud family (owners of Louis Roederer) Pichon Lalande has been pushing at First Growth quality for some years, under the leadership of Nicholas Glumineau.  The estate comprises 90 hectares, with 73 hectares under vine, planted to a density of 9 vines per hectare and averaging 35 years of age.  As of 2020, 28 hectares have been converted to organic and biodynamic viticulture.  The wine spends 18 months in 60% new oak.  13% of the blend is press wine, with 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc and 23% Merlot.