2001 Chateau Pichon Lalande Comtesse Pauillac

(93 Points  --  Wine Advocate)

A distinctive bouquet of violets, soy, pepper, blackberries, cassis, and tree bark gives this 2001 a singular style. This dense ruby/purple-colored blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, and a whopping 14% Petite Verdot exhibits plenty of structure, wonderful sweetness, a closed style, but a rich, textured, persistent character. The usually large percentage of Petite Verdot gives the wine more structure and less initial charm. This beauty needs some time in the cellar. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2018. The Wine Advocate (06/04)