Presentation
The Griffons of Pichon Baron is the latest addition to the estate. This wine has a pure and straight character. The grapes that make up the blend of this wine mainly come from the gravelly plots near the Gironde estuary, ideal for cabernet sauvignon. The Griffons invites you to a lively and fresh experience, full and straight, full of energy. This wine can be stored in the cellar for more than 20 years but can be enjoyed now.
Terroir
Overlooking the Latour vineyard, the 73 hectares of the Domaine de Pichon Baron extend over very high-quality gravelly soils. This unique land, low in nutrients and not excessively watered, sparingly nourishes old vine stocks, whose grape production is intended to be rare but exceptionally noble. This terroir is capable of producing extraordinary wines, which the property strives to achieve with excellence and consistency, respecting the original history of this vineyard. Comprising 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, the vast Pichon Baron vineyard has been meticulously divided into plots. The 40-hectare grand terroir of the Pichon Baron hill is solely dedicated to producing the Grand Vin and now represents the majority of its blend.
Winemaking
The vats were controlled to maintain temperatures below 10°C in order to favor gradual extractions in the pure style of the estate. Alcoholic fermentations started quickly and the pace was moderate, allowing for extractions during the fermentation phase, tailored to each grape variety and terroir. Temperatures were regulated at 25-27°C. Maceration times ranged from 16 to 24 days. Barrel aging was completed at the end of November.
Ageing
50% in new barrels, 50% in barrels of a wine for 15 months.
Varietals
Merlot : 62%
Cabernet-sauvignon : 34%
Cabernet franc : 4%
Tasting
"A juicy and structured red with black currant, black cherry and hints of dark chocolate with some crushed stone. Medium-bodied, creamy tannins. Very typical." - James Suckling
Reviews
Decanter
James Suckling
Jeb Dunnuck
Vinous
Wine Advocate