2012 Le Pin, Pomerol 1x300cl

Le Pin: Tiny Production, Ultra-Collectable Pomerol

Since its inception in 1979, Pomerol’s Le Pin has risen to become one of Bordeaux’s most exclusive, desirable and expensive wines. Named after a lone pine tree that sits outside the winery, it is minuscule in production at just 600 cases or so in a typical vintage and immense in quality. Allocations are some of the region’s most fiercely fought over and cherished.

Le Pin: Opulence, Decadence and Luxury

The unique terroir here at this tiny patch of Pomerol is responsible for Le Pin’s opulent and hedonistic style. The Grand Vin comes from a tiny, 2.8ha plot of Merlot that sits on deep gravel and iron-rich clay. Under the brilliant perfectionist owner Jacques Thienpont, who has a relentless and exacting drive for quality, the wines from here are consistently outstanding.

L’If and L’Hetre: Two Gems From The Same Superb Stable

While the price of Le Pin puts it out of the reach of many, there are options for those who want an insight into the winemaking here at a fraction of the price. Chateau L’If is a project of the Thienpont’s from St Emilion and is excellent. Chateau L’Hetre comes from vines in the Cotes de Bordeaux and is an outright bargain. Both are made by the same team and with the same level of care and expertise as the Grand Vin. They are well worth snapping up as they are relative bargains.