1997 Pontet Canet
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Tasting notes
This wine, which had performed well from cask (particularly for the vintage), was severe, tannic, gritty, and attenuated on two of the three occasions it was tasted from bottle. I have lowered the score and added a question mark because the wine lacks the color saturation of the barrel samples, exhibits more herbaceousness, and the tannin is astringent. Perhaps it is going through an awkward stage of development, but right now I am less enthusiastic. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2010.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Some decent plum and berry character, with hints of herbs. Light-bodied, light finish. Slightly lighter than I remember. Drink now. James Suckling, Wine Spectator 2000
This wine, which had performed well from cask (particularly for the vintage), was severe, tannic, gritty, and attenuated on two of the three occasions it was tasted from bottle. I have lowered the score and added a question mark because the wine lacks the color saturation of the barrel samples, exhibits more herbaceousness, and the tannin is astringent. Perhaps it is going through an awkward stage of development, but right now I am less enthusiastic. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2010. Apr 2000, www.robertparker.com
About the producer
Ch. Pontet-Canet is one of Pauillac’s top estates, and one of its largest at 81 hectares. Although classified as a Fifth Growth, these days it consistently competes with the First Growths