The 2005 vintage will be remembered above all for the great drought. During the vines’ growth cycle total rainfall was barely over half of what we usually get! What’s more, this lack of rain came after a number of already dry years. Spring was not excessively hot until mid-May. Because of this, the vines grew fairly slowly. Flowering, which occurred at the end of this month, suggested that harvesting would be around 25th September. The dry, sunny conditions in summer confirmed that harvesting be around that date. It wasn’t the few showers in September which changed the start date and the harvesting schedule based on our tasting of the grapes. Our decision was mainly taken on the basis of changes to the quality of the tannins and aromas in the fruit. Harvesting started on 26th September for the Merlots with a single team of pickers who were able to gather the grapes once they reached peak ripeness in the different terroirs. The Cabernets were harvested from 3rd October with the help of160 outside pickers. Then, as we were sure that our last plots were in good health, we decided to finish off with a single team from 6th October. We ended harvesting on 10th October amid general optimism.

Rating

Black in color, with aromas of blackberry, black licorice, tar, mineral and fresh flowers. Full-bodied and powerful, with ultrafine tannins that last for minutes on the palate. A polished, thought-provoking wine. Shows wonderful purity of Cabernet Sauvignon. Best after 2014. 20,830 cases made. –JS #7 in Wine Spectator’s 2008 The Top 100 Wine Spectator 96 points (Mar 31 2008) Absolutely spectacular, Pontet-Canet’s 2005 receives the full attention of dedicated proprietor Alfred Tesseron. Produced from yields of 35 hectoliters per hectare (25% less wine than in 2004), it is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot. The first vintage vinified in tiny cement cuves with pigeage for some lots, this wine will have 40-50 years of longevity, and should turn out to be the greatest Pontet-Canet since such ancient classics as 1961, 1945, and 1929. It boasts an inky/purple color as well as pure creme de cassis aromas, first-growth nobility and raciness, massive body, tannin, and extract, and a finish that lasts nearly a minute. With extraordinary purity and density, it is unapproachable at present, and is best cellared until 2012, and drunk over the following 50 years. (94-96) points. Robert Parker 94 points (Apr 2006)