Ever since En Primeur, the 2023 Pontet-Canet has stood out as one of the greats of the vintage and a potential benchmark wine for one of the most celebrated properties in the region. There are a few reasons for this. First, many of the winery’s recent renovations and innovations came fully into play, from new fermentation vessels to the use of significantly lighter bottles to reduce environmental impact. More importantly, it’s also a vintage they managed beautifully, putting their signature luxurious imprint on their unforgettable Pauillac terroir. A blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, and the balance Petit Verdot, it is an impeccably balanced wine that unmistakably carries the Pontet-Canet signature. The electricity and vibrancy of deep, layered black and red fruits are there, but where there can sometimes be an “up to eleven” quality, the 2023 instead shows a great thread of minerality and freshness supporting the texture and richness. Only 50% new oak and a modest 13.8% ABV complete the picture. The more classic style of the vintage worked beautifully in tandem with Pontet-Canet and the style they are aspiring to—and perhaps perfected—in 2023. And importantly, when you compare this Pontet-Canet to their all-time greats, to other elite wines from the vintage, or to great collectibles from across the globe, the value is undeniable.