Chateau Pichon Lalande   Pichon Lalande

1997 Pichon Lalande

By Chateau Pichon Lalande

1997 Pichon Lalande from Chateau Pichon Lalande, Pauillac, Bordeaux

The 1997 vintage from the celebrated Chateau Pichon Lalande is a definitive expression of the challenges and triumphs of its year. Emerging elegantly from Bordeaux's vine-striped landscapes, this Pauillac offering mirrors the unique atmospheric conditions it endured—a milder climate coupled with unexpected weather swings that tested the estate's venerable vines.

 

Finely-Tuned Finesse of a Testing Vintage

Wine investment enthusiasts understand the nuances that differentiate each vintage—critical climatic differences that become subtly etched into every bottle. The 1997 Pichon Lalande is no stranger to this complexity; here lies a culmination of winemaking resilience in a year noted for its capricious nature in Bordeaux. The estate's deft handling of such unpredictability has coaxed forth a wine exuding balance and depth, laced with mature hints of cedar and tobacco—attributes that only time and terroir can bestow.

 

Tasting Notes: Reflecting the Rich Tapestry of Terroir

Upon tasting, one encounters a generous bouquet, the fruits of labour from a challenging harvest. A mélange of blackcurrants and cherries harmonises with earthy undertones—a signature accord for the gracious Pauillac appellation. While Pichon Lalande's acclaimed full-bodied power and rich tannins might be more reticent this season, there remains an unmistakable elegance—a softer palate whispers of dark berries, nuanced with delicate spice and a lingering finish.

Perceptive investors might observe how gracefully the 1997 Pichon Lalande has entered its drinking window, a vital consideration for portfolios favouring wines at their pinnacle of maturity. The silkiness now evident typifies how well this specimen has navigated time’s passage.

As we discuss collectability and cellar potential, we herald Chateau Pichon Lalande's adept interpretation of an unpredictable harvest—an appealing asset for diversified wine investments. The savvy connoisseur looking to augment their collection will recognise in 1997 Pichon Lalande, a nuanced chapter in Bordeaux's oenological ledger; one that continues to offer pleasure and provoke contemplation in equal measure.

Current market price

$2,110.00

12x75cl

Highest score

88

POP score

158.75

Scores and tasting notes

88

Tasted at the Fine Wine Experience's Pichon-Lalande vertical in London. This has a little more definition on the nose than the 1991. Blackberry, a touch of bilberry, a little iodine, lovely definition although note complex

Neal Martin - Wine Journal Sep 2009

88

This hedonistic, luscious, sexy, opulently-textured Pichon-Lalande is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. Exhibiting a dark ruby color with purple nuances, it is open-knit, with plentiful quantities of roasted herbs, smoky oak, vanillin, and creamy black currant fruit. A lush texture, low acidity, and an accessible, velvety-textured style will have many admirers. Consume it over the next decade.

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 20 April 2000

Vintage performance