2016 Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac Grand Cru Classé
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| Type of Wine | |
|---|---|
| Country | France |
| Region | |
| Appellation | Pauillac |
| Winery | |
| Vintage | 2016 |
| Grape | , , , |
| Content (Alc) | 0.75 ltr (14.5%) |
| Drink window | 2026 - 2060 |
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Description
EX CHATEAU RELEASE - EXPECTED MARCH/APRIL 2026
Château Pontet-Canet Winery
Château Pontet-Canet is one of Pauillac's leading Grand Cru Classé estates and is known for its distinctive approach to Bordeaux. Since the 1990s, under the leadership of Alfred Tesseron, the château has consciously opted for a sustainable and biodynamic approach, with far-reaching changes in vineyard management and winemaking. These choices have resulted in a clearly recognizable style, where structure, energy, and terroir expression take center stage.
More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.
Region, climate and location
Pontet-Canet is located north of Pauillac, on the left bank of the Gironde. The vineyards consist primarily of deep gravel layers with clay and limestone in the subsoil, which contribute to drainage, structure, and mineral tension. The 2016 vintage is considered a classic great vintage in Bordeaux, with a long growing season, optimal ripeness, and retained freshness. These conditions were ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon on the left bank.
Vineyards
The Pontet-Canet vineyards are farmed entirely biodynamically. Horses are used for tillage, and chemical agents are avoided. This approach results in low yields and grapes with a high degree of concentration and precision. The plots in Pauillac yield grapes with a pronounced structure and a characteristic mineral signature.
Grape varieties and composition
The blend is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, supplemented by Merlot and small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Cabernet Sauvignon provides the backbone of the wine, with power, length, and aging potential, while Merlot contributes texture and roundness. The other varietals provide nuance and aromatic complexity.
Harvest, vinification and maturation
The harvest took place under excellent conditions, with perfectly ripe grapes and a high degree of selection. Vinification is carried out plot by plot, combining traditional methods with innovative techniques. Some of the wine is aged in oak barrels, while others are aged in terracotta amphorae. This approach contributes to texture, freshness, and a pure expression of the fruit. Maturation focuses on integration and balance, without overweighting the wine.
Color, smell and taste
The wine displays a deep garnet purple color. The nose opens powerfully and layered, with aromas of blackcurrant, blueberry, and ripe dark fruit, interwoven with floral notes, spiciness, and a distinct mineral tension. Nuances of cocoa, spice, and earthy accents add depth. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and concentrated, with a distinctly energetic structure. The tannins are firm yet fine-grained and perfectly integrated, supported by fresh acidity that provides balance and length. Despite its power, the wine remains remarkably precise and harmonious. The finish is exceptionally long, with a lasting impression of depth, freshness, and structure.
Development and drinking window
The 2016 Pontet-Canet is still in a relatively early stage of its development, but already shows impressive balance. Professional reviews suggest several drinking windows, ranging from 2023 to 2060 and from 2026 to 2066. This underscores the wine's exceptional aging potential, which will continue to refine over several decades.
Summary of professional reviews
Lisa Perrotti-Brown of The Wine Advocate awarded the wine 98+ points, highlighting its enormous layering, power, and harmony, with potential for an even higher score in the future. Antonio Galloni of Vinous awarded the wine 99 points, calling it exceptionally balanced, energetic, and distinctive within Pauillac, with a precision and consistency rarely seen. Both reviewers consider this vintage one of the great Pontet-Canets of recent decades. Parker concludes his review with: "... I wouldn't be at all surprised if this warrants the three-digit score in a few years. "
The full review texts can be found in the Professional Reviews tab.
If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you this information when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.
You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.
Specifications
| Packing information | Box |
|---|---|
| Type of Wine | Red |
| Country | France |
| Region | Bordeaux |
| Appellation | Pauillac |
| Icons | Icon France |
| Winery | Chateau Pontet-Canet |
| Grape | Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot |
| Biological certified | No |
| Natural wine | No |
| Vegan | No |
| Vintage | 2016 |
| Drinking as of | 2026 |
| Drinking till | 2060 |
| Alcohol % | 14.5 |
| Alcohol free/low | No |
| Content | 0.75 ltr |
| Oak aging | Yes |
| Sparkling | No |
| Dessert wine | No |
| Closure | Cork |
| Parker rating | 99 |
| James Suckling rating | 99 |
| Vinous rating | 99 |
| Tasting Profiles | Complex, Donker fruit, Droog, Houtgerijpt, Krachtig, Mineraal, Tannines |
| Drink moments | Indruk maken, Lekker luxe, Open haard |
| Sommy Pairing Beschrijving | De 2016 Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac is een indrukwekkende wijn met diepe aroma’s van zwarte bessen, blauwe bes en rijp donker fruit, verrijkt met florale en kruidige tonen en een herkenbare minerale spanning. In de smaak is hij vol, geconcentreerd en energiek, met zachte, fijnkorrelige tannines en frisse zuren die zorgen voor een perfecte balans en een lange, elegante afdronk. Deze wijn vormt een prachtige combinatie met gerechten zoals lam, wild of rijke gehaktgerechten omdat de krachtige structuur en verfijnde complexiteit de hartige smaken en de textuur van het vlees mooi aanvullen. Bereidingen zoals langzaam gegaard wild of lamsbout, liefst met kruidige of aardse accenten, worden nog mooier in harmonie met de diepgang en frisheid van deze wijn, waardoor elke slok en hap een ware beleving wordt. |
Professional Reviews
Parker
The Wine Advocate
RP 98+
Reviewed by:
Lisa Perrotti-Brown
Release Price:
NA
Drink Date:
2023 - 2060
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2016 Pontet-Canet hits the ground running with a hedonic nose of Black Forest cake, crème de cassis and blueberry pie plus suggestions of candied violets, hoisin, chocolate mint, charcuteries and forest floor with a waft of star anise. Full-bodied, rich, profoundly layered and powerfully fruited, the palate is built like a brick house, with very firm, super ripe, grainy tannins and harmonious freshness, finishing with incredible length and depth. Still incredibly primary and yet already strutting so many layers, I wouldn't be at all surprised if this warrants the three-digit score in a few years' time.
Published: May 29, 2020
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua...
James Suckling
Score
98-99
Avg Price (ex-tax)
$ 194
Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac 2016
Tuesday, Apr 04, 2017
Color
Red
Country
France
Region
Bordeaux
Vintage
2016
Download Shelftalker
Vivid and full of energy with blackberry, currant and salt. Full body, intense and long. Harmony. Purpose. Classicism. The mineral and currant character is all year. A seamless tannin texture. Great wine. You want to drink it now!
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua...
Vinous
99
Drinking Window
2026 - 2066
From: 2016 Bordeaux…It’s All In The Bottle (Jan 2019)
The 2016 Pontet-Canet is absolutely breathtaking. Powerful, ample and racy in the glass, the 2016 is one of the most exquisitely well-balanced young Pontet-Canets I can remember tasting. Savory, high-toned aromatics and brisk mineral notes lend energy and delineation as this vivid wonderfully alive wine opens up in the glass. The flavors are dark and incisive, but it is the wine's total sense of harmony that is most compelling. All of the elements are simply in the right place. The 2016 is tremendous. It's as simple as that. As is often the case, Pontet-Canet is one of the most singular wines in Bordeaux. Alfred Tesseron could have chosen to play things safe when he took over the management of the estate in the mid-1990s. Instead, he chose a very different path. No proprietor in Bordeaux has taken more risks over the last two decades than Alfred Tesseron. A commitment to biodynamic farming, sustainability across the entire estate more broadly, and the adoption of new concepts for Bordeaux, such as aging a portion of the wine in terra cotta, set Pontet-Canet apart from other properties in Pauillac and the Left Bank. Not surprisingly, the wine is also starkly different from the wines of neighboring estates.
- By Antonio Galloni on December 2018
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua...
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Wijnhuis
Pontet-Canet is a wine producer based in Pauillac, Bordeaux. The estate is known for its high quality red wines, made mainly from Cabernet Sauvignon, and is classified as a fifth growth (Cinquième Cru) in the official Bordeaux wine classification of 1855.
History of Pontet-Canet
The history of Pontet-Canet dates back to the early 18th century, when the estate was founded. In 1705, the vineyard was founded by Jean-François de Pontet, an important figure in the Bordeaux wine industry. He expanded the vineyard and built a castle, from which the estate takes its name. At the end of the 18th century, the property came into the hands of the Canet family and became known as 'Château Pontet-Canet'. The Canet family was instrumental in developing the estate's vineyards and winemaking practices. In 1855, when Emperor Napoleon III ordered the classification of Bordeaux wines for the Exposition Universelle de Paris, Pontet-Canet was classified as a fifth grow (Cinquième Cru) in the official Bordeaux wine classification of 1855. This classification recognized the historical reputation of the estate and the quality of its wines. In the 20th century, the Cruse family, wine merchants from Bordeaux, acquired Pontet-Canet. The Cruse family has made significant improvements to the estate and winemaking processes. In the mid-2000s, Pontet-Canet underwent a remarkable transformation. The estate, led by owner Alfred Tesseron (later owner of Tesseron Estate), embraced biodynamic farming practices. This marked a major shift towards organic and sustainable viticulture, avoiding synthetic chemicals and emphasizing the holistic relationship between the vineyard, the soil and the environment.
Terroir of Pontet-Canet
Pontet-Canet's vineyards cover approximately 81 hectares (200 acres) of prime Pauillac terroir. The vineyard is planted with a high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon (usually around 65-70%), as well as Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.
Production of Pontet-Canet
The winemaking process at Pontet-Canet involves a combination of traditional and modern techniques. The grapes are harvested and sorted by hand, with fermentation taking place in temperature-controlled wooden barrels. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels, usually for 16 to 20 months, depending on the vintage. Pontet-Canet wines are known for their deep color, concentrated fruit flavors and a structure that allows them to age gracefully. They often exhibit a balance between power and elegance, with fine tannins and complex aromas. It is believed that the estate's commitment to biodynamic farming has contributed to the purity and expression of the terroir in their wines.
Food
Spijs
De 2016 Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac is een indrukwekkende wijn met diepe aroma’s van zwarte bessen, blauwe bes en rijp donker fruit, verrijkt met florale en kruidige tonen en een herkenbare minerale spanning. In de smaak is hij vol, geconcentreerd en energiek, met zachte, fijnkorrelige tannines en frisse zuren die zorgen voor een perfecte balans en een lange, elegante afdronk. Deze wijn vormt een prachtige combinatie met gerechten zoals lam, wild of rijke gehaktgerechten omdat de krachtige structuur en verfijnde complexiteit de hartige smaken en de textuur van het vlees mooi aanvullen. Bereidingen zoals langzaam gegaard wild of lamsbout, liefst met kruidige of aardse accenten, worden nog mooier in harmonie met de diepgang en frisheid van deze wijn, waardoor elke slok en hap een ware beleving wordt.
Klik op een categorie om heerlijke recepten te ontdekken die perfect combineren met deze wijn.
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EX CHATEAU RELEASE - EXPECTED MARCH/APRIL 2026
Château Pontet-Canet Winery
Château Pontet-Canet is one of Pauillac's leading Grand Cru Classé estates and is known for its distinctive approach to Bordeaux. Since the 1990s, under the leadership of Alfred Tesseron, the château has consciously opted for a sustainable and biodynamic approach, with far-reaching changes in vineyard management and winemaking. These choices have resulted in a clearly recognizable style, where structure, energy, and terroir expression take center stage.
More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.
Region, climate and location
Pontet-Canet is located north of Pauillac, on the left bank of the Gironde. The vineyards consist primarily of deep gravel layers with clay and limestone in the subsoil, which contribute to drainage, structure, and mineral tension. The 2016 vintage is considered a classic great vintage in Bordeaux, with a long growing season, optimal ripeness, and retained freshness. These conditions were ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon on the left bank.
Vineyards
The Pontet-Canet vineyards are farmed entirely biodynamically. Horses are used for tillage, and chemical agents are avoided. This approach results in low yields and grapes with a high degree of concentration and precision. The plots in Pauillac yield grapes with a pronounced structure and a characteristic mineral signature.
Grape varieties and composition
The blend is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, supplemented by Merlot and small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Cabernet Sauvignon provides the backbone of the wine, with power, length, and aging potential, while Merlot contributes texture and roundness. The other varietals provide nuance and aromatic complexity.
Harvest, vinification and maturation
The harvest took place under excellent conditions, with perfectly ripe grapes and a high degree of selection. Vinification is carried out plot by plot, combining traditional methods with innovative techniques. Some of the wine is aged in oak barrels, while others are aged in terracotta amphorae. This approach contributes to texture, freshness, and a pure expression of the fruit. Maturation focuses on integration and balance, without overweighting the wine.
Color, smell and taste
The wine displays a deep garnet purple color. The nose opens powerfully and layered, with aromas of blackcurrant, blueberry, and ripe dark fruit, interwoven with floral notes, spiciness, and a distinct mineral tension. Nuances of cocoa, spice, and earthy accents add depth. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and concentrated, with a distinctly energetic structure. The tannins are firm yet fine-grained and perfectly integrated, supported by fresh acidity that provides balance and length. Despite its power, the wine remains remarkably precise and harmonious. The finish is exceptionally long, with a lasting impression of depth, freshness, and structure.
Development and drinking window
The 2016 Pontet-Canet is still in a relatively early stage of its development, but already shows impressive balance. Professional reviews suggest several drinking windows, ranging from 2023 to 2060 and from 2026 to 2066. This underscores the wine's exceptional aging potential, which will continue to refine over several decades.
Summary of professional reviews
Lisa Perrotti-Brown of The Wine Advocate awarded the wine 98+ points, highlighting its enormous layering, power, and harmony, with potential for an even higher score in the future. Antonio Galloni of Vinous awarded the wine 99 points, calling it exceptionally balanced, energetic, and distinctive within Pauillac, with a precision and consistency rarely seen. Both reviewers consider this vintage one of the great Pontet-Canets of recent decades. Parker concludes his review with: "... I wouldn't be at all surprised if this warrants the three-digit score in a few years. "
The full review texts can be found in the Professional Reviews tab.
If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you this information when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.
You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.
| Packing information | Box |
|---|---|
| Type of Wine | Red |
| Country | France |
| Region | Bordeaux |
| Appellation | Pauillac |
| Icons | Icon France |
| Winery | Chateau Pontet-Canet |
| Grape | Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot |
| Biological certified | No |
| Natural wine | No |
| Vegan | No |
| Vintage | 2016 |
| Drinking as of | 2026 |
| Drinking till | 2060 |
| Alcohol % | 14.5 |
| Alcohol free/low | No |
| Content | 0.75 ltr |
| Oak aging | Yes |
| Sparkling | No |
| Dessert wine | No |
| Closure | Cork |
| Parker rating | 99 |
| James Suckling rating | 99 |
| Vinous rating | 99 |
| Tasting Profiles | Complex, Donker fruit, Droog, Houtgerijpt, Krachtig, Mineraal, Tannines |
| Drink moments | Indruk maken, Lekker luxe, Open haard |
| Sommy Pairing Beschrijving | De 2016 Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac is een indrukwekkende wijn met diepe aroma’s van zwarte bessen, blauwe bes en rijp donker fruit, verrijkt met florale en kruidige tonen en een herkenbare minerale spanning. In de smaak is hij vol, geconcentreerd en energiek, met zachte, fijnkorrelige tannines en frisse zuren die zorgen voor een perfecte balans en een lange, elegante afdronk. Deze wijn vormt een prachtige combinatie met gerechten zoals lam, wild of rijke gehaktgerechten omdat de krachtige structuur en verfijnde complexiteit de hartige smaken en de textuur van het vlees mooi aanvullen. Bereidingen zoals langzaam gegaard wild of lamsbout, liefst met kruidige of aardse accenten, worden nog mooier in harmonie met de diepgang en frisheid van deze wijn, waardoor elke slok en hap een ware beleving wordt. |
Parker
The Wine Advocate
RP 98+
Reviewed by:
Lisa Perrotti-Brown
Release Price:
NA
Drink Date:
2023 - 2060
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2016 Pontet-Canet hits the ground running with a hedonic nose of Black Forest cake, crème de cassis and blueberry pie plus suggestions of candied violets, hoisin, chocolate mint, charcuteries and forest floor with a waft of star anise. Full-bodied, rich, profoundly layered and powerfully fruited, the palate is built like a brick house, with very firm, super ripe, grainy tannins and harmonious freshness, finishing with incredible length and depth. Still incredibly primary and yet already strutting so many layers, I wouldn't be at all surprised if this warrants the three-digit score in a few years' time.
Published: May 29, 2020
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua...
James Suckling
Score
98-99
Avg Price (ex-tax)
$ 194
Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac 2016
Tuesday, Apr 04, 2017
Color
Red
Country
France
Region
Bordeaux
Vintage
2016
Download Shelftalker
Vivid and full of energy with blackberry, currant and salt. Full body, intense and long. Harmony. Purpose. Classicism. The mineral and currant character is all year. A seamless tannin texture. Great wine. You want to drink it now!
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua...
Vinous
99
Drinking Window
2026 - 2066
From: 2016 Bordeaux…It’s All In The Bottle (Jan 2019)
The 2016 Pontet-Canet is absolutely breathtaking. Powerful, ample and racy in the glass, the 2016 is one of the most exquisitely well-balanced young Pontet-Canets I can remember tasting. Savory, high-toned aromatics and brisk mineral notes lend energy and delineation as this vivid wonderfully alive wine opens up in the glass. The flavors are dark and incisive, but it is the wine's total sense of harmony that is most compelling. All of the elements are simply in the right place. The 2016 is tremendous. It's as simple as that. As is often the case, Pontet-Canet is one of the most singular wines in Bordeaux. Alfred Tesseron could have chosen to play things safe when he took over the management of the estate in the mid-1990s. Instead, he chose a very different path. No proprietor in Bordeaux has taken more risks over the last two decades than Alfred Tesseron. A commitment to biodynamic farming, sustainability across the entire estate more broadly, and the adoption of new concepts for Bordeaux, such as aging a portion of the wine in terra cotta, set Pontet-Canet apart from other properties in Pauillac and the Left Bank. Not surprisingly, the wine is also starkly different from the wines of neighboring estates.
- By Antonio Galloni on December 2018
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua...
Exclusive Content
Sign in to unlock professional wine reviews from world-renowned critics
Pontet-Canet is a wine producer based in Pauillac, Bordeaux. The estate is known for its high quality red wines, made mainly from Cabernet Sauvignon, and is classified as a fifth growth (Cinquième Cru) in the official Bordeaux wine classification of 1855.
History of Pontet-Canet
The history of Pontet-Canet dates back to the early 18th century, when the estate was founded. In 1705, the vineyard was founded by Jean-François de Pontet, an important figure in the Bordeaux wine industry. He expanded the vineyard and built a castle, from which the estate takes its name. At the end of the 18th century, the property came into the hands of the Canet family and became known as 'Château Pontet-Canet'. The Canet family was instrumental in developing the estate's vineyards and winemaking practices. In 1855, when Emperor Napoleon III ordered the classification of Bordeaux wines for the Exposition Universelle de Paris, Pontet-Canet was classified as a fifth grow (Cinquième Cru) in the official Bordeaux wine classification of 1855. This classification recognized the historical reputation of the estate and the quality of its wines. In the 20th century, the Cruse family, wine merchants from Bordeaux, acquired Pontet-Canet. The Cruse family has made significant improvements to the estate and winemaking processes. In the mid-2000s, Pontet-Canet underwent a remarkable transformation. The estate, led by owner Alfred Tesseron (later owner of Tesseron Estate), embraced biodynamic farming practices. This marked a major shift towards organic and sustainable viticulture, avoiding synthetic chemicals and emphasizing the holistic relationship between the vineyard, the soil and the environment.
Terroir of Pontet-Canet
Pontet-Canet's vineyards cover approximately 81 hectares (200 acres) of prime Pauillac terroir. The vineyard is planted with a high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon (usually around 65-70%), as well as Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.
Production of Pontet-Canet
The winemaking process at Pontet-Canet involves a combination of traditional and modern techniques. The grapes are harvested and sorted by hand, with fermentation taking place in temperature-controlled wooden barrels. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels, usually for 16 to 20 months, depending on the vintage. Pontet-Canet wines are known for their deep color, concentrated fruit flavors and a structure that allows them to age gracefully. They often exhibit a balance between power and elegance, with fine tannins and complex aromas. It is believed that the estate's commitment to biodynamic farming has contributed to the purity and expression of the terroir in their wines.
Spijs
De 2016 Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac is een indrukwekkende wijn met diepe aroma’s van zwarte bessen, blauwe bes en rijp donker fruit, verrijkt met florale en kruidige tonen en een herkenbare minerale spanning. In de smaak is hij vol, geconcentreerd en energiek, met zachte, fijnkorrelige tannines en frisse zuren die zorgen voor een perfecte balans en een lange, elegante afdronk. Deze wijn vormt een prachtige combinatie met gerechten zoals lam, wild of rijke gehaktgerechten omdat de krachtige structuur en verfijnde complexiteit de hartige smaken en de textuur van het vlees mooi aanvullen. Bereidingen zoals langzaam gegaard wild of lamsbout, liefst met kruidige of aardse accenten, worden nog mooier in harmonie met de diepgang en frisheid van deze wijn, waardoor elke slok en hap een ware beleving wordt.
Klik op een categorie om heerlijke recepten te ontdekken die perfect combineren met deze wijn.
Heeft u al een gerecht in gedachte?
Laat onze AI-sommelier u helpen met het vinden van de ideale wijn bij uw gerecht
Start de Sommy Wijnadvies ToolDiscover Wine Trivia
Sign in to unlock fascinating facts about this wine and expand your knowledge.
Sign In+ 1 more attachments
Description
EX CHATEAU RELEASE - EXPECTED MARCH/APRIL 2026
Château Pontet-Canet Winery
Château Pontet-Canet is one of Pauillac's leading Grand Cru Classé estates and is known for its distinctive approach to Bordeaux. Since the 1990s, under the leadership of Alfred Tesseron, the château has consciously opted for a sustainable and biodynamic approach, with far-reaching changes in vineyard management and winemaking. These choices have resulted in a clearly recognizable style, where structure, energy, and terroir expression take center stage.
More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.
Region, climate and location
Pontet-Canet is located north of Pauillac, on the left bank of the Gironde. The vineyards consist primarily of deep gravel layers with clay and limestone in the subsoil, which contribute to drainage, structure, and mineral tension. The 2016 vintage is considered a classic great vintage in Bordeaux, with a long growing season, optimal ripeness, and retained freshness. These conditions were ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon on the left bank.
Vineyards
The Pontet-Canet vineyards are farmed entirely biodynamically. Horses are used for tillage, and chemical agents are avoided. This approach results in low yields and grapes with a high degree of concentration and precision. The plots in Pauillac yield grapes with a pronounced structure and a characteristic mineral signature.
Grape varieties and composition
The blend is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, supplemented by Merlot and small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Cabernet Sauvignon provides the backbone of the wine, with power, length, and aging potential, while Merlot contributes texture and roundness. The other varietals provide nuance and aromatic complexity.
Harvest, vinification and maturation
The harvest took place under excellent conditions, with perfectly ripe grapes and a high degree of selection. Vinification is carried out plot by plot, combining traditional methods with innovative techniques. Some of the wine is aged in oak barrels, while others are aged in terracotta amphorae. This approach contributes to texture, freshness, and a pure expression of the fruit. Maturation focuses on integration and balance, without overweighting the wine.
Color, smell and taste
The wine displays a deep garnet purple color. The nose opens powerfully and layered, with aromas of blackcurrant, blueberry, and ripe dark fruit, interwoven with floral notes, spiciness, and a distinct mineral tension. Nuances of cocoa, spice, and earthy accents add depth. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and concentrated, with a distinctly energetic structure. The tannins are firm yet fine-grained and perfectly integrated, supported by fresh acidity that provides balance and length. Despite its power, the wine remains remarkably precise and harmonious. The finish is exceptionally long, with a lasting impression of depth, freshness, and structure.
Development and drinking window
The 2016 Pontet-Canet is still in a relatively early stage of its development, but already shows impressive balance. Professional reviews suggest several drinking windows, ranging from 2023 to 2060 and from 2026 to 2066. This underscores the wine's exceptional aging potential, which will continue to refine over several decades.
Summary of professional reviews
Lisa Perrotti-Brown of The Wine Advocate awarded the wine 98+ points, highlighting its enormous layering, power, and harmony, with potential for an even higher score in the future. Antonio Galloni of Vinous awarded the wine 99 points, calling it exceptionally balanced, energetic, and distinctive within Pauillac, with a precision and consistency rarely seen. Both reviewers consider this vintage one of the great Pontet-Canets of recent decades. Parker concludes his review with: "... I wouldn't be at all surprised if this warrants the three-digit score in a few years. "
The full review texts can be found in the Professional Reviews tab.
If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you this information when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.
You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.
Specifications
| Packing information | Box |
|---|---|
| Type of Wine | Red |
| Country | France |
| Region | Bordeaux |
| Appellation | Pauillac |
| Icons | Icon France |
| Winery | Chateau Pontet-Canet |
| Grape | Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot |
| Biological certified | No |
| Natural wine | No |
| Vegan | No |
| Vintage | 2016 |
| Drinking as of | 2026 |
| Drinking till | 2060 |
| Alcohol % | 14.5 |
| Alcohol free/low | No |
| Content | 0.75 ltr |
| Oak aging | Yes |
| Sparkling | No |
| Dessert wine | No |
| Closure | Cork |
| Parker rating | 99 |
| James Suckling rating | 99 |
| Vinous rating | 99 |
| Tasting Profiles | Complex, Donker fruit, Droog, Houtgerijpt, Krachtig, Mineraal, Tannines |
| Drink moments | Indruk maken, Lekker luxe, Open haard |
| Sommy Pairing Beschrijving | De 2016 Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac is een indrukwekkende wijn met diepe aroma’s van zwarte bessen, blauwe bes en rijp donker fruit, verrijkt met florale en kruidige tonen en een herkenbare minerale spanning. In de smaak is hij vol, geconcentreerd en energiek, met zachte, fijnkorrelige tannines en frisse zuren die zorgen voor een perfecte balans en een lange, elegante afdronk. Deze wijn vormt een prachtige combinatie met gerechten zoals lam, wild of rijke gehaktgerechten omdat de krachtige structuur en verfijnde complexiteit de hartige smaken en de textuur van het vlees mooi aanvullen. Bereidingen zoals langzaam gegaard wild of lamsbout, liefst met kruidige of aardse accenten, worden nog mooier in harmonie met de diepgang en frisheid van deze wijn, waardoor elke slok en hap een ware beleving wordt. |
Professional Reviews
Parker
The Wine Advocate
RP 98+
Reviewed by:
Lisa Perrotti-Brown
Release Price:
NA
Drink Date:
2023 - 2060
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2016 Pontet-Canet hits the ground running with a hedonic nose of Black Forest cake, crème de cassis and blueberry pie plus suggestions of candied violets, hoisin, chocolate mint, charcuteries and forest floor with a waft of star anise. Full-bodied, rich, profoundly layered and powerfully fruited, the palate is built like a brick house, with very firm, super ripe, grainy tannins and harmonious freshness, finishing with incredible length and depth. Still incredibly primary and yet already strutting so many layers, I wouldn't be at all surprised if this warrants the three-digit score in a few years' time.
Published: May 29, 2020
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James Suckling
Score
98-99
Avg Price (ex-tax)
$ 194
Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac 2016
Tuesday, Apr 04, 2017
Color
Red
Country
France
Region
Bordeaux
Vintage
2016
Download Shelftalker
Vivid and full of energy with blackberry, currant and salt. Full body, intense and long. Harmony. Purpose. Classicism. The mineral and currant character is all year. A seamless tannin texture. Great wine. You want to drink it now!
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Vinous
99
Drinking Window
2026 - 2066
From: 2016 Bordeaux…It’s All In The Bottle (Jan 2019)
The 2016 Pontet-Canet is absolutely breathtaking. Powerful, ample and racy in the glass, the 2016 is one of the most exquisitely well-balanced young Pontet-Canets I can remember tasting. Savory, high-toned aromatics and brisk mineral notes lend energy and delineation as this vivid wonderfully alive wine opens up in the glass. The flavors are dark and incisive, but it is the wine's total sense of harmony that is most compelling. All of the elements are simply in the right place. The 2016 is tremendous. It's as simple as that. As is often the case, Pontet-Canet is one of the most singular wines in Bordeaux. Alfred Tesseron could have chosen to play things safe when he took over the management of the estate in the mid-1990s. Instead, he chose a very different path. No proprietor in Bordeaux has taken more risks over the last two decades than Alfred Tesseron. A commitment to biodynamic farming, sustainability across the entire estate more broadly, and the adoption of new concepts for Bordeaux, such as aging a portion of the wine in terra cotta, set Pontet-Canet apart from other properties in Pauillac and the Left Bank. Not surprisingly, the wine is also starkly different from the wines of neighboring estates.
- By Antonio Galloni on December 2018
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Wijnhuis
Pontet-Canet is a wine producer based in Pauillac, Bordeaux. The estate is known for its high quality red wines, made mainly from Cabernet Sauvignon, and is classified as a fifth growth (Cinquième Cru) in the official Bordeaux wine classification of 1855.
History of Pontet-Canet
The history of Pontet-Canet dates back to the early 18th century, when the estate was founded. In 1705, the vineyard was founded by Jean-François de Pontet, an important figure in the Bordeaux wine industry. He expanded the vineyard and built a castle, from which the estate takes its name. At the end of the 18th century, the property came into the hands of the Canet family and became known as 'Château Pontet-Canet'. The Canet family was instrumental in developing the estate's vineyards and winemaking practices. In 1855, when Emperor Napoleon III ordered the classification of Bordeaux wines for the Exposition Universelle de Paris, Pontet-Canet was classified as a fifth grow (Cinquième Cru) in the official Bordeaux wine classification of 1855. This classification recognized the historical reputation of the estate and the quality of its wines. In the 20th century, the Cruse family, wine merchants from Bordeaux, acquired Pontet-Canet. The Cruse family has made significant improvements to the estate and winemaking processes. In the mid-2000s, Pontet-Canet underwent a remarkable transformation. The estate, led by owner Alfred Tesseron (later owner of Tesseron Estate), embraced biodynamic farming practices. This marked a major shift towards organic and sustainable viticulture, avoiding synthetic chemicals and emphasizing the holistic relationship between the vineyard, the soil and the environment.
Terroir of Pontet-Canet
Pontet-Canet's vineyards cover approximately 81 hectares (200 acres) of prime Pauillac terroir. The vineyard is planted with a high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon (usually around 65-70%), as well as Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.
Production of Pontet-Canet
The winemaking process at Pontet-Canet involves a combination of traditional and modern techniques. The grapes are harvested and sorted by hand, with fermentation taking place in temperature-controlled wooden barrels. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels, usually for 16 to 20 months, depending on the vintage. Pontet-Canet wines are known for their deep color, concentrated fruit flavors and a structure that allows them to age gracefully. They often exhibit a balance between power and elegance, with fine tannins and complex aromas. It is believed that the estate's commitment to biodynamic farming has contributed to the purity and expression of the terroir in their wines.
Food
Spijs
De 2016 Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac is een indrukwekkende wijn met diepe aroma’s van zwarte bessen, blauwe bes en rijp donker fruit, verrijkt met florale en kruidige tonen en een herkenbare minerale spanning. In de smaak is hij vol, geconcentreerd en energiek, met zachte, fijnkorrelige tannines en frisse zuren die zorgen voor een perfecte balans en een lange, elegante afdronk. Deze wijn vormt een prachtige combinatie met gerechten zoals lam, wild of rijke gehaktgerechten omdat de krachtige structuur en verfijnde complexiteit de hartige smaken en de textuur van het vlees mooi aanvullen. Bereidingen zoals langzaam gegaard wild of lamsbout, liefst met kruidige of aardse accenten, worden nog mooier in harmonie met de diepgang en frisheid van deze wijn, waardoor elke slok en hap een ware beleving wordt.
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