2020 Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac Grand Cru Classé

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.