1988 Château Pontet-Canet
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Tasting notes
The 1988 Pontet Canet, which predates Alfred Tesseron taking over the management of the estate, is clear in colour with moderate bricking on the rim. The nose is lacking some vigour, rustic and feral, light earthy and slightly under-ripe. The palate is medium-bodied with stalky black fruit, rather angular and this feels hollow towards the finish. If it serves one purpose, it shows how far the property has progressed under Alfred Tesseron. Tasted at the château.
Critic scores
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
This wine has put on some weight, and although fully mature and somewhat herbaceous, I like the complex cedar, spice box, Provencal herb sort of nose intermixed with some red and black currants. In the mouth, it is medium-bodied and slightly austere, but well-made and represents a traditional taste of old-style Bordeaux. Anticipated maturity: Now-2007. Last tasted, 9/02.
Really seductive, with blackberry, cherry and sweet tobacco aromas that follow through to a medium body, with firm tannins and a slightly metallic edge. Interesting and stylish.¿'88/'98 Bordeaux blind retrospective (2008). Drink now.James Suckling, Wine Spectator 2009
The 1988 Pontet-Canet typifies many of the Medocs in this vintage with its fine color, narrowly constructed personality, and green tannins. Relatively lean and austere, this wine will age well, but it will always lack charm and flesh. Feb 1993, 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