Château Pédesclaux 2020

A refined and aromatic Classified Great Growth from Pauillac

The estate

A Classified 5^th Growth of Pauillac, Château Pédesclaux was founded under the leadership of wine broker Urbain-Pierre Pédesclaux in the early 19th century. Acquiring the estate in 2009, the Lorenzetti family has elevated it to the highest level by equipping it with state-of-the-art infrastructure. 2014 notably marked the construction of a new gravity-fed winery, designed by architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte. In 2018, Manon Lorenzetti took over the reins of the property, dedicating to it her own dynamic energy and passion.

The vineyard

The Château Pédesclaux vineyard covers 52 hectares of vines spread over 19 different terroirs in the heart of the Pauillac AOC. Since 2019, the vineyard has been converting to organic farming. The vineyard is managed by Vincent Bache-Gabrielsen, advised by oenologist Éric Boissenot.

The vintage

Although winter 2020 was the mildest in the region since 1854, it was also the rainiest in the past 20 years. While the early flowering was homogeneous, mildew pressure was significant. Summer was marked by scorching conditions from the end of July. Great variations in temperatures at the beginning of September fostered the expression and aromatic complexity of the grapes. The harvests began 10 days in advance. The grapes, harvested at full ripeness, were concentrated and of a high quality.

Despite the difficult climactic conditions during this vintage, the employment of organic farming in the 19 terroirs at the estate made good development possible in the whole of the vineyard, notably by stimulating microbial life in the soils, thus improving the natural resistance of the vines.

Winemaking and ageing

Following the harvest, the grapes spend 24 hours in a cold room before being sorted. Vinifications are carried out with extreme finesse to preserve the purity of the fruit and to impart a silky touch. Ageing lasts for 16 months in barrels (60% new, 40% in barrels of one previous wine) from 9 coopers. Trials in ceramic vessels and amphorae are carried out to enhance the sheen of the fruit.

Blend

The 2020 Château Pédesclaux is made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (56%), Merlot (34%), Cabernet Franc (5%), Petit Verdot (5%).

Tasting

The 2020 Château Pédesclaux seduces with its complex nose, mixing notes of spice with green pepper. Juicy and enticing, the beautifully persistent palate unveils silky tannins. A refined wine, with a powerful structure that is elevated by delicious, spicy notes.