2003 Pichon Lalande
By Chateau Pichon Lalande
2003 Pichon Lalande from Château Pichon Lalande, Pauillac, Bordeaux
Embarking upon a tasting of the 2003 Pichon Lalande from Château Pichon Lalande confirms its standing as a vintage of note within the historical tapestry of Bordeaux's exceptional releases. The year 2003 was marked by extreme weather patterns, culminating in a series of heatwaves that swept across Europe, leaving an indelible stamp on the vintages produced within this tumultuous season.
A Vintage Defined by Extremes
For those who possess a proclivity for the more opulent and generously structured wines, the impact of the scorching summer on the 2003 Pichon Lalande offers a unique profile. Amidst an era less susceptible to climatic extremity, this particular year oriented itself toward producing wines with intensely ripe characteristics and sumptuous tannins, differentiating it from the typically more reserved expressions of Pauillac's terroir.
Unveiling the Layers
The bouquet presents an alluring symphony of cassis, blackberries, and a subtle touch of cedar that resonate with the depth of character expected from this esteemed left-bank appellation. On the palate, there is a harmony between mature fruit and earthy undertones underscored by a whisper of truffle and spice; a testament to its evolution over two decades. Imbibing this wine now reveals layers that are unfurling gracefully, still anchored by sturdy yet approachable tannins.
An investment in 2003 Pichon Lalande not only confers ownership of a storied vintage but also offers the nuanced complexity only found in years that challenge both viticulturists and winemakers to adapt with mastery – a characteristic seductive to collectors and investors alike.
Concluding Reflections
The journey through tasting the 2003 Pichon Lalande illuminates a wine touched by providence's extremes yet crafted with astuteness. As one contemplates its placement within an investment portfolio, there lies an appreciation for its distinctive narrative—a hallmark moment within Château Pichon Lalande's chronicle where adversity was not just met but transcended into vinous splendour.
Market price (SGD)
$2,530.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
101.33
Scores and tasting notes
This has very ripe fruit, but not overripe. Hints of prunes but mostly currants and spices on the nose, mainly cinnamon. Full-bodied with firm tannins yet polished and velvety. It still has an incredible freshness. I love it. Try it after 2015, but enjoy this now if you cannot wait.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, July 1st 2013
Made from a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot, this spectacular 2003 hits all the sweet spots on the palate. A glorious bouquet of cedarwood, jammy black currants, cherries, licorice and truffle is followed by a dense, opulently textured, full-bodied wine with terrific purity and freshness as well as deep, velvety textured tannins. Enjoy this beauty over the next 10-12 years.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 27 August 2014
The brilliant, opulent, fleshy 2003 Pichon Lalande (65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, and 4% Petit Verdot) possesses a high pH of 3.8 as well as 13% alcohol. Reminiscent of the 1982 Pichon Lalande (which never shut down and continues to go from strength to strength), the dense plum/purple-colored 2003 offers gorgeous aromas of blackberries, plum liqueur, sweet cherries, smoke, and melted licorice. Fleshy, full-bodied, and intense, displaying a seamless integration of wood, acidity, tannin, and alcohol, this beauty can be drunk now or cellared for 20 years or more.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #164 April 2006
Tasted at Bordeaux Index's "10-Year On" tasting in London. The Pichon Lalande 2003 is a notorious wine that has so often displays off-putting vegetal notes. This is a much better bottle. It has a smudged bouquet of red berries, cassis, blackcurrant pastilles and a touch of violet. The merlot is very dominant here, rendering it almost like a Saint Emilion wine. The palate is medium-bodied with a fleshy texture, well-judged acidity and natural composure. It is a forward Pichon Lalande, but it is very refined and harmonious with a sensual caressing finish. Tasted March 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2013