Chateau Le Pin   Le Pin

2011 Le Pin

By Chateau Le Pin

2011 The Le Pin from Chateau Le Pin, Pomerol, Bordeaux

The 2011 vintage from the illustrious Chateau Le Pin is an articulate expression of Pomerol's unique terroir and presents as an understated siren among its lush and more opulent siblings. This particular offering showcases the intriguing complexity possible in a Bordeaux vintage that challenged vintners with early season heat spikes followed by cooler, unstable weather during the critical period of ripening.

 

A Pomerol Vintage to Ponder

Famed for its feathery layers and seductive depth, 2011 Le Pin plays on a quieter stage, relinquishing the bold opulence often associated with this esteemed estate. This year echoes restraint and demands contemplation. Encased within its typically polished veneer lies a tapestry of subtle redcurrants, truffle, and understated oak—an ensemble made intriguing by the climatic vicissitudes that year. The summer proved to be a meticulous test of viticultural acumen, amplifying the brilliance of Chateau Le Pin's winemaking prowess.

 

A Crucible for Nuance: Investing in Resilience

An investable asset not just for its rarity but also for its embodiment of a vintage that tested resilience and adaptation—discerning collectors will note how the 2011 Le Pin integrates these narratives into its structure. Its tannins are finely wrought rather than assertive; its acid backbone promises longevity yet serves now to imprint upon the palate an elegant vibrancy. The fruit offers whispered intimacies rather than grand declarations, indicative of a season where every ray of sunshine counted.

For sophisticated palates attuned to the subtler dialogue of wine, this 2011 Le Pin is a captivating study from Chateau Le Pin. It reveals not just the character wrought by Bordeaux's mercurial skies but also the deft hand required to compose such grace under meteorological pressure. This nuanced Pomerol stands as a testament to fine wine investment potential, layered with stories that unfold with each glass savoured.

The genteel dance of the 2011 from Chateau Le Pin offers collectors an engaging narrative of harmony between nature and nurture—a story worth investing in, as it impeccably encapsulates nature's serendipity embraced by human artistry in oenology.

Market price (USD)

N/A

12x75cl

Highest score

95

POP score

N/A

Scores and tasting notes

95

Caramelized fruit, coffee bean, espresso, black cherry liqueur, licorice and spice aromas jump from the glass of this dark ruby/plum-colored wine. Concentrated and silky-textured, this full-bodied, voluptuous wine is a brilliant example of the 2011 vintage. Give it 2-4 more years in the bottle and enjoy it over the next 15 or more.

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2014

95

Caramelized fruit, coffee bean, espresso, black cherry liqueur, licorice and spice aromas jump from the glass of this dark ruby/plum-colored wine. Concentrated and silky-textured, this full-bodied, voluptuous wine is a brilliant example of the 2011 vintage. Give it 2-4 more years in the bottle and enjoy it over the next 15 or more.

Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #212 Apr 2014

93

This is extremely bright and exotic, with crushed berries, flowers, orange peel and strawberries. Full body with a super-refined tannin structure and gorgeous, subtle chocolate, coffee and orange peel with red fruits. You want to drink it now, but better in 2016.

James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, February 19th 2014

89-91

The Le Pin 2011 was picked on 12th and 13th September at 35hl/ha and it has 13.3% alcohol with a pH of 3.7. More importantly, it is the first vintage to be vinified at Jacques Thienpont- new winery facility equipped with 15 to 45 hectolitre stainless steel vats. It has a wonderful purity on the nose that reminds me of a fine Burgundy! It has very pure small red cherries and a touch of strawberry with amazing precision and focus. The palate is medium-bodied with quite a strict entry. It is slightly pinched at the moment, a saline touch on the entry with a touch of black olive. Compared to other vintages that I have tasted at this stage, it is a little disjointed and showing some hardness towards the finish. I think this Le Pin was not showing its best on the day and that others may find a little more from it. I will seek to re-taste this at a later moment. Tasted April 2012.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2012

Vintage performance