A ruby robe showing a slight change in colour. The very powerful nose displays surprising complexity, which includes liquorice, candied fruit and candied citrus fruit. There are also tertiary aromas of tobacco with animal hints, which are the hallmark of the Pontet-Canet terroir. On the palate, the attack is full and the tannins develop massively with great length. It is a very traditional Pauillac which is just starting to open out. It will effortlessly live on for half a century.

Wine Advocate

wa92

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. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2035.

Robert Parker, April 1999

Wine Spectator

ws90

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. Best after 2002.

James Suckling, January 31, 1999

Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac 1996

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