WTN: Pontet-Canet; another good 1994.
Posted: Thu Feb 07, 2013 11:39 am1994 claret, particularly left-bank, has drawn mostly lukewarm reviews from the outset. By contrast 1995 was praised to the skies initially but has drawn less enthusiasm in recent years. Up to now, I have found my 1994s far more satisfactory drinking than the 95s, though I still hope that the latter may come round one day. This is another good example of the former.
Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac 5ème Grand Cru Classé 1994 – Tesseron – Alc.12.5% was even better than a bottle opened about 6 months ago, mainly through seeming less gritty in texture and angular in its tannins. Colour was quite deep showing little signs of age and the nose was expressive with savoury cassis tinged red and dark fruit, a welcome dab of Bordelais noble green, gritty minerals and a hint of cedar. The palate was medium/full showing quite primary red fruit, decent depth, velvety texture, more minerals and lively acidity together with firm tannins on a finish with fair length; excellent 17/20.
Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac 5ème Grand Cru Classé 1994 – Tesseron – Alc.12.5% was even better than a bottle opened about 6 months ago, mainly through seeming less gritty in texture and angular in its tannins. Colour was quite deep showing little signs of age and the nose was expressive with savoury cassis tinged red and dark fruit, a welcome dab of Bordelais noble green, gritty minerals and a hint of cedar. The palate was medium/full showing quite primary red fruit, decent depth, velvety texture, more minerals and lively acidity together with firm tannins on a finish with fair length; excellent 17/20.