The 10^thvintage by the Lorenzetti family, 2018 also marks the birth of an exceptional vintage forChteau Pedesclaux,the magnificentGrand Cru ClasseofPauillac.

2018 was characterized by intense episodes of rain, which resulted in strong mildew pressure. The excellent location of Chateau Pedesclaux near the Gironde estuary, nevertheless, helped the estate fight off the attacks of mildew, by helping circulate masses of air. With a conversion begun in 2012, 50% of the Chteau Pedesclaux vineyard is now cultivated by means of organic and biodynamic agriculture.

The beautiful summer with plenty of sunshine lasted until harvest, allowing for fantastic fruit: small grapes with a high concentration of aromas and beautiful tannins. The harvest began on September 25 and ended on October 12, fully revealing the personality of each variety.

The Grand Vin of the estate, theChateau Pdesclaux 2018is made from a blend ofCabernet Sauvignon(64%), complemented byMerlot(27%),Petit Verdot(4%) andCabernet Franc(5%).

At the tasting, theChateau Pdesclaux 2018presents a beautifully intense garnet red colour. The aromatic bouquet is quite powerful, revealing gorgeous black fruit notes, elegant citrus and spices, punctuated with delicate floral fragrances, especially violet. On the palate, the wines seduces with its richness and smooth texture, structured by round and silky tannins. The wine retains a great freshness and a beautiful vivaciousness on the palate, stretching forth into a mouthwatering finish of great elegance. A perfectly executed vintage for Chateau Pedesclaux, announcing the birth of another great year.

95 Points–Jeb Dunnuck

My money is on the 2018 Chteau Pdesclaux being the best to date, and this estate has made leaps and bounds in terms of quality over the past decade. The 2018 is made from 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot, which will spend 16 months in 60% new French oak prior to bottling. Showing notable freshness and elegance, as well as medium to full body, seamless tannins, and perfumed notes of blue fruits, spice, violets, and wet stone-like minerality, it shows the purity, precision, and elegance that the estate now delivers as well as the sweet, sunny fruit of the vintage. It will be accessible with just short-term cellaring yet keep for 25+ years or more.