Pichon-Longueville Lalande is not as powerful or as tannic as some its Pauillac neighbours and this is mainly because of its relatively high Merlot content. The wine is fermented in stainless steel cuvées and then matured in oak barriques (50% new) for 18 months. Located in the east of the Pauillac appellation, the vineyards ( Cabernet Sauvignon 45%, Merlot 35%, Cabernet Franc 12%, Petit Verdot 8%) lie on deep gravel beds underpinned by clay and then sandstone and limestone (part of these vineyards actually reside in the St-Julien appellation). Pichon-Longueville Lalande is a 75-hectare property that produces on average 36,000 cases per year. This is largely due to the energy, drive and ambition of May-Eliane de Lenquesaing, who took over the property in 1978. Read more wine at a glanceĬhâteau Pichon-Longueville Lalande is one of the most important Super Seconds and this 2ème Cru Classé Pauillac estate has made tremendous strides in the last 20 years. The lack of Merlot means that the wine is not very fleshy at this stage but it will undoubtedly put on weight in barrel and I have no doubt that this will prove to be a Pichon of exceptional finesse with great ageing potential. Overall the impression is of great purity, freshness and elegance.
On the palate the tannins are staggeringly fine, indicative of a very delicate touch in vinification to avoid extraction of excessive or bitter tannins. The bouquet shows amazingly purity with the focus on cassis and graphite. The team clearly feel that the quality this year lies with the Cabernets and the tasting confirms this impression.
This year, however, there is much more focus on the Cabernets, which together account for 90% of the blend. Historically Pichon had about 30-35 % Merlot in its blend which partly accounted for its lush texture and enticingly soft aroma. Louis Roederer acquired this venerable estate recently and under the guidance of Director Sylvie Cazes the changes are already evident.
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