At a glance

Producer

Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande

Region

Pauillac, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon dominant blend (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$180 - $260 USD

Tasting profile

Dense blackcurrant and cassis with cedar, graphite, and subtle floral notes. Toasty oak and refined tannic grip.

Evolution: Gradual softening of tannins with more integrated oak and earth nuances developing over the next decade.

At peak: Harmonious balance of black and red fruits, spice, mineral complexity, and silky tannins at maturity.

Structure

Acidity

Balanced with good freshness

Tannins

Firm yet ripe

Alcohol

13.5-14.0% ABV

Aging potential

30-40+ years under optimal conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2048

Optimal window

2024 to 2051

Current status

Approaching early maturity; still developing

Current condition

Tannins beginning to soften but still structured; intense fruit and complexity present

As a classified growth Pauillac from an excellent 2016 vintage, this wine combines superb structure and freshness. The strong tannins and acidity allow long-term aging, with optimal drinking beginning approximately 8 years post-vintage. The wine’s pedigree and vintage quality support a peak window extending well into 2038 or beyond, benefiting from cellaring to reach full complexity.

Food pairing

Ideal with rich red meats such as roast lamb, beef bourguignon, game birds, or aged hard cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften firm tannins and allow aromatic expression to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Sustainable vineyard management emphasizing reduced chemical use, cover cropping, water conservation, use of precision viticulture; seeks carbon reduction and biodiversity protection; limits water usage via drip irrigation and region climate characteristics

Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande employs sustainable viticultural practices certified by HVE, reflecting good environmental stewardship. While Bordeaux wines have moderate carbon footprints due to global distribution, the estate’s practices show commitment to reducing impact through efficient resource use and biodiversity. Packaging uses traditional glass bottles, somewhat heavy but consistent with luxury Bordeaux style.