Deep ruby-red. Blackcurrant, plum, tobacco and black olive nose is more complex and serious than that of either of the foregoing vintages. Thick, grapey and concentrated; still quite primary. This shows the fat and depth of the '96 vintage in the northern Medoc. Finishes long, with substantial tannins. Impressive.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

I was shocked by how backward the 1996 Pontet-Canet was on the three occasions I tasted it in January. This wine possesses superb potential, but it appears a decade's worth of patience will be necessary. The color is a saturated dark purple. With coaxing, the wine offers aromas of black currant jam intertwined with minerals, sweet oak, and spice. A full-bodied wine, it possesses layered, concentrated, sweet fruit, with an elevated level of ripe tannin.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

A young red, with bright black licorice and berry aromas and hints of spice. Full-bodied, with firm tannins and compact fruit structure. Slightly closed on the finish, but impressive nonetheless.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Powerful nose of blackcurrent, leather, earth, cigar box and lavender. A good amount of fruit and a medium finish. Drinking well in 2013. Outperformed by the 2000 vintage Pontet-Canet.