Réserve de la Comtesse 2018

Winery Background and History

Réserve de la Comtesse is the esteemed second wine of Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, a prestigious estate in the Pauillac appellation of Bordeaux, France. Established in the late 17th century, Château Pichon Lalande has a rich history of producing exceptional wines that exemplify the Pauillac terroir. The introduction of Réserve de la Comtesse allowed the estate to showcase a more approachable expression of its vineyards, offering a wine that reflects the elegance and complexity of its grand vin while being accessible at a younger age.

Producer and Winemaker

As of the 2018 vintage, Château Pichon Lalande was under the ownership of the Rouzaud family, proprietors of the Champagne house Louis Roederer. The winemaking team was led by Technical Director Nicolas Glumineau, who joined the estate in 2012. With experience from his tenure at Château Montrose, Glumineau focused on precision viticulture and winemaking techniques to enhance the expression of the estate’s unique terroir.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The vineyards of Château Pichon Lalande encompass approximately 89 hectares, situated on the gravelly soils typical of the Pauillac appellation. These well-draining soils are ideal for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The proximity to the Gironde estuary provides a moderating influence on the climate, reducing temperature extremes and promoting a long, even ripening period. The 2018 growing season was marked by a cold and wet winter, leading to a late bud break around mid-April. A relatively mild period from April to June allowed for flowering at the end of May, despite several storms during this time creating unprecedented mildew pressure. Fortunately, the Pichon Comtesse vineyard experienced minimal coulure and was spared from hail damage. A hot and dry spell from mid-July resulted in uniform veraison, beginning on July 28th for the Merlot and concluding on August 14th for the Cabernet and Petit Verdot. The harvest took place from September 13th to October 11th under excellent conditions, with each parcel picked at optimal ripeness. 

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

The 2018 Réserve de la Comtesse is a blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot, and 1% Cabernet Franc. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

The grapes for the 2018 vintage were hand-harvested and meticulously sorted to ensure only the highest quality fruit was utilized. Fermentation occurred in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, allowing for precise management of fermentation kinetics. Following fermentation, the wine was aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, with 40% being new oak, 30% one-year-old, and 30% two-year-old barrels. This aging process imparted complexity and structure to the wine while preserving the purity of the fruit. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The 2018 vintage has an alcohol content of 14%. 

Tasting Notes

The 2018 Réserve de la Comtesse presents an enticing nose of blackberry and cedar, with spicy notes of pepper and fresh mint. On the palate, it is delicious, exuding raspberry aromas. The wine is equally supple and dense, with pure, fresh fruits. It is savory, exhibiting evolving elegance and long length, thanks to well-integrated tannins. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs well with roasted meats, particularly lamb and beef, as well as game dishes. Its balanced acidity and refined tannins complement the richness of these foods, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures

For optimal enjoyment, it is recommended to decant the wine for about 30 minutes prior to serving to allow it to fully express its aromas and flavors. Serve at a temperature between 16-18°C (60-64°F).

Storage and Aging Potential

Stored under proper conditions—away from light, at a consistent temperature of around 12°C (54°F), and with appropriate humidity—this wine has the potential to develop further complexity over the next several years. It is suitable for consumption now but can be cellared to enhance its tertiary characteristics.

Scores

• Jeb Dunnuck: 94/100

• James Suckling: 94/100

• Wine Spectator: 93/100

• Decanter: 92/100

• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 92/100