2009 Chateau Pontet-Canet 5eme Cru Classe, Pauillac 12x75cl

Robert Parker 100

Deep garnet in color, the 2009 Pontet-Canet slips sensuously from the glass with opulent scents of creme de cassis, baked plums and Black Forest cake plus suggestions of Chinese five spice, potpourri, oolong tea and menthol. Full-bodied, rich, spicy and oh-so-decadent in the mouth, it has a fantastically velvety frame and seamless freshness, finishing very long. [12/05/2020]

Anticipated maturity: 2020-2065

Vinous 95

The 2009 Pontet-Canet needs more encouragement from the glass than its peers, but it rewards the imbiber with seductive pure cassis and blackberry fruit, touches of autumn leaves and pencil box. The palate is medium-bodied with firm but fine tannin, a lovely bead of acidity. A harmonious, brown spice and smoke tinged finish fans out with confidence. You could open this now but it still has two more decades of drinking pleasure to give. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners’ 2009 Bordeaux tasting. [Neal Martin, 14/03/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2042

JancisRobinson.com 18/20

Tasted blind. Mid crimson. Sweet tea leaves on the nose. Nice and neat and satisfying with some light dry tannins on the end. Good for now and the future without being a standout. Quite spicy. [14/02/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2035