Chateau Pichon-Lalande, Reserve de la Comtesse 2017

The temperatures were carefully regulated during the fermentation and the maceration to obtain an aromatic and silky expression of the vintage. Overall, the alcohol-tannin-acid balance was excellent. Malolactic fermentation was minimal due to low temperatures. Maceration: 18 to 24 days.

The estate was founded in 1689 by Pierre de Mazure de Rauzan and the vineyard acquired its name a few years later when his daughter Therese received it as part of her dowry on her marriage to Jacques de Pichon Longueville, the first President of the Parliament of Bordeaux. Thus began the history of one of the most famous Bordeaux vineyards which, for one and half centuries, remained a single holding in the hands of one family. The 89 hectares (220 acres) of this vineyard border the property of Chateau Latour and stretch south of Pauillac towards the Commune of St Julien, whence it gets its extraordinary charm. The exceptional character of the wines produced here is distinguished by their elegance and finesse. This is due to a harmonious balance of different grape varietals: the vineyards are made up of 35% Merlot (a very high percentage for this appellation) to give roundness and suppleness; 45% Cabernet Sauvignon to provide longevity; 12% Cabernet Franc for finesse; 8% Petit Verdot to ensure a certain freshness and aromatic complexity. Champagne Louis Roederers on-going investment has seen the Chateau completely renovated, with the wine making facilities rebuilt and modernised, and the chais vastly extended in a long-term project, including a triple-tiered cellar. Similarly, a targeted replanting programme for select vineyard parcels was also introduced, ensuring the best root stocks with the highest potential were planted in the correct soil types for each varietal. New double-skinned temperature controlled stainless steel vats were also brought, allowing the Chateau to vinify on a parcel basis, as well as contributing to a softer, more gentle extraction for the most sensuous wine of Pauillac.