Tasting Notes
JancisRobinson.com – 17
70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc. Aged 20 months in oak barrels (80% new).Deep garnet hue. Dark fruit (blackcurrant) with a hint of vanilla oak. Cabernet element definitely comes through. Muscular in character, the tannins powerful and taught. Sufficient weight but after the generosity of 2005 seems a little reserved. Pauillac power evident. (JL)
Anticipated maturity: 2018-2032
Vinous – 90
The 2006 Pichon-Baron has the same showy creme de cassis-tinged bouquet that I have remarked upon in previous bottles, pure but missing the complexity of the 2004 and 2005. The medium-bodied palate is bold and assertive, with thick, chewy tannin, but the class and sophistication are not at the level I would expect. It offers volume and matiere but not panache. I am intrigued to see how it will age. Tasted at the Pichon-Baron vertical at the chateau.
Anticipated maturity: 2018-2032
Robert Parker – 91
Tasted at Bordeaux Index’s annual 10-Year On tasting in London. The 2006 Chateau Pichon Baron has more red than black fruit on the nose, quite showy with hints of creme de cassis and then later it calms down to reveal classic pencil lead aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with a gentle grip in the mouth. This is quite assertive and grippy, although later vintages have evinced more precision and mineralite on the finish. Still, this is a fine if rather burly Pichon Baron. Tasted January 2016.
Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038
