2001 Pichon-Baron, Pauillac

Tasted blind at Bordeaux Index‰۪s 10-Year On horizontal. This has a relatively light but feminine bouquet, earthy notes at first, later tightly coiled blackberry and cedar, briary and pencil box. The palate is medium-bodied with a succulent entry that marries beautifully with the fine tannins and depth of flavour. This is more primal than its peers, but wonderful delineation and purity with a caressing, silky smooth finish. Utterly seductive: this Pichon Baron is finally coming into its own. Tasted March 2011. (NM)