99-Points by Jeb Dunnuck, May 2023.
I loved the Grand Vin 2022 Château Pichon-Longueville Baron, which is based on 81% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Merlot that will spend 18 months in 70% new oak. It's not the most showy or exuberant 2022, yet it shines for its incredible class and purity, as well as balance. It has a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated profile (no surprise) with its focused, precise, inward style that still brings gorgeous depth and richness. Cassis, graphite, espresso roast, crushed stone and spring flowers are just some of its nuances, and where many 2022s are broad and mouth-filling, this stays tight, compact, and focused, with a wonderful mix of elegance, concentration, and richness. The 2022 is pulled from 48% of the total production, and it's going to warrant 7-8 years of bottle age and have 50+ years of overall longevity.
98-Points by Vinous - Antonio Galloni.
The 2022 Pichon Baron is one of the most elegant, polished wines I have ever tasted here. Silky and refined, the 2022 is super-impressive right out of the gate. The aromatics alone are mesmerizing. Blood orange, herbs and floral notes lend notable delineation to a core of Cabernet Sauvignon fruit. As I did en primeur, I find the wine's balance nothing short of exquisite. There's more freshness and vibrancy here than in the past, along with a noticeably lower oak imprint and more sensual tannins that lend notable sophistication throughout. The Grand Vin spent 16 months in French oak barrels, 70% new, and then two months in wood vats prior to bottling.
98-Points by James Suckling.
What a nose with complex aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants, graphite and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, this has layers of tannins and intense richness but is framed and held together by the phenolic structure. Vertical and deep, it goes on for minutes on the palate. Great finish!
98-Points by Wine Enthusiast.
This is already shaping up to being one of the stars of the vintage. With its great fruit, fully enveloped by the structure and tannins, the wine has been set well for the future. The aromatic black fruits are intense and concentrated.
98-Points by Robert Parker's Wine Advocate.
Aromas of sweet dark berries and cherries mingled with notions of cigar wrapper, pencil shavings and licorice introduce the 2022 Pichon-Longueville Baron, a full-bodied, layered and multidimensional wine that's deep, dense and lively, with terrific concentration, sweet tannins and a long, penetrating finish. Integrated and serious, this hints at the lavishness inherent to the vintage, while remaining classic and controlled.
History and ownership
- Orignally, Comtesse de Lalande was part of a larger property formally known as Château Pichon Longueville, owned by the Baron Joseph de Pichon Longueville who died in 1850. Upon his death, his children Raoul and Virginie inherited half of the property each. Raoul's half became Château Pichon-Longueville Baron, while Virginie's became Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande.
Château Pichon Baron, located in the renowned Pauillac appellation, is celebrated for its exceptional wines, deep connection to terroir, and long-standing commitment to excellence. The estate’s success is driven by a talented and dedicated team whose shared expertise and passion ensure that its wines remain among the finest in the world.
Leading this team is Christian Seely, who joined AXA Millésimes in 1993 and became Managing Director in 2001, overseeing both the group and Château Pichon Baron. In 2022, Pierre Montégut became Technical Director, succeeding Jean-René Matignon after 36 years and bringing extensive experience from Château Suduiraut. Alexandra Lebossé, with the estate since 1999, has played a central role in winemaking and became Winemaker in 2017, while Aymeric Hervy, Vineyard Manager since 2017, ensures the vineyards are managed with care and sustainability. Together, they uphold the estate’s legacy by crafting elegant wines that reflect the true character of Pauillac.
Château Pichon-Longueville Baron, Pauillac, Bordeaux 2022
Style
RedVintage
2022
Bin
32A
