Château Pichon Baron Pauillac 1855 2ième Cru 2003

A famously hot dry year that could be challenging on well-draining gravel soils, but this has held up well, majoring on cinnamon and turmeric spice, touches of black chocolate and liquorice. Soft tobacco notes on the finish, you know you are in Pauillac here, because the tannins are still present and confident even at 19 years old, and there is a mouthwatering edge of salinity on the finish. No need to wait, but also no great rush to drink up. 70% new oak. Jean-Rene Matignon technical director.