TN: 2002 Pichon Baron

[JonB]

This is entering a much better phase. Classic left bank bouquet of tobacco and currant. Silky, lush, black currant and earth.....it was singing with a long finish. 93 points.

Also this weekend a 2003 Chevillon Chaignots....my first impression was it was outstanding, then midway through the palate there was a not subtle roasted character....very easily identified as 2003. This wine is outstanding if you like that exotic quality....otherwise, you may find it qualitatively poor.

[stefan]

I like Chevillon both in '03 and '04, Jon, even if none I have tried are pure expressions of pinot noir. My impression is that Chevillon rolled with the punches and struck back hard.

[Ramon_NYC]

Bill,

I've not tried any Chevillon '03 nor '04. But am a Chevillon-head with earlier vintages stashed away. I'd like to try the 2003s. Is it because of the noted hot vintage that makes you say that none are pure expression of pinot noir?

[stefan]

Right, Ramon. Incidentally, both vintages drink pretty well now.

[AlexR]

2002. A much underated vintage. Many drinking well now, even Pichon Baron I see - normally a wine that needs a lot of time to come around.

Alex R.

[JimHow]

2002L is indeed the greatest Bordeaux vintage post 2000, Alex.

Indeed, if you factor in price, it may be one of the greatest ever.

I'm glad I have a case of 2002 Pichon Baron, purchased for $35 per bottle!

[Gerry M.]

2002L is indeed the greatest Bordeaux vintage post 2000, Alex.

Indeed, if you factor in price, it may be one of the greatest ever.

I'm glad I have a case of 2002 Pichon Baron, purchased for $35 per bottle!

Jim, keep something in mind you mentioned earlier regarding the 2002 PB about keeping your hands off sealed cases vs. bottles on the shelf.

I bought 3 cases of this from NH at $31/btl and I only have 5 bottles left!! It's been a "go-to" wine for me and has always been a pleasure to drink. Now it appears to be really developing nicely.

[JimHow]

I remember when those 2002 Pichon Barons went on sale for $31, Gerry. One of the greatest bargains ever. To me, those 2002 left bankers like Pichon Baron, Leoville Poyferre, Lagrange, Haut Bailly, etc., with their reserve, classicism, and restraint, are as good as it gets.