As one of the greatest vintages in the modern history of Bordeaux, the best 2016s are always worth seeking out. With two 98-point scores and one of 99 points, the 2016 from the famous 2nd Growth of Chateau Pichon Baron is in the elite of the vintage and, therefore, a tremendous claret in the making. I am delighted to have some pristine cases to offer directly from Bordeaux.

Pichon Baron is quintessential Pauillac. From a superb location opposite Pichon Lalande and close to Latour; the intense, structured and aristocratic wines from here are capable of rivalling some of the best the appellation has to offer. The 2016 is among the finest Pichons ever made.

Lisa Perrotti-Brown found it “shimmers with energy, featuring layers of black fruits and minerals” and “so beautifully pure and intense”. Jane Anson praised it as “An exceptional vintage where the Cabernet expression at five years old is dominant” 2021. Jeff Leve said “Simply put, this is fabulous!” and gave it a stellar 99 points.

Details are below. Do take a look and let us know if you would like to secure a case or two.

A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot, the 2016 Pichon Baron is deep garnet-purple in color. It needs a lot of swirling to uncover notes of blackcurrant cordial, chocolate-covered cherries, and boysenberry preserves, plus suggestions of cedar chest, tapenade, and clove oil, with a touch of iron ore. The medium-bodied palate shimmers with energy, featuring layers of black fruits and minerals, supported by ripe, grainy tannins, finishing long and earthy. This is so beautifully pure and intense. (2022) www.thewineindependent.com Drink 2025-2055

An exceptional vintage where the Cabernet expression at five years old is dominant – savoury and sculpted cassis bud, bilberry and blueberry fruit alongside waves of rosebud and violet. The tannins are concentrated and still austere, but this is a great Pichon Baron, with liqourice, slate, pencil lead, waves of flavour resonating through the palate. Just a brilliant reflection of a vintage and a terroir. 80% new oak. (2021) www.janeanson.com Drink 2026-2052

With a tannic, racy edge to all the fresh, ripe, sweet, fleshy, currants on the palate, the wine kicks off with espresso, tobacco leaf, currants, black cherries, cigar box, underbrush, red fruits, and chalk. Simply put, this is fabulous! The tannins are perfectly ripe giving you the structure to show off all the layers of supple, textured, fresh, pure, racy fruits. The seamless finish grabs your palate and keeps it. This is in contention as the finest vintage of Pichon Baron produced by Jean Rene Matignon. Drink from 2022-2060. www.thewinecellarinsider.com 

Offered subject to final confirmation. Available in the UK in 8-12 weeks. Offer expires 21st June 2024.

Many thanks,