Wines Pauillac Château Pichon-Longueville Baron - 2006

Château Pichon-Longueville Baron 2006 is an emblematic red Bordeaux from the prestigious Pauillac appellation in the Médoc. This Grand Cru Classé is primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot and, occasionally, smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The 2006 vintage faced a relatively cool and damp August, but a warm and dry September permitted an optimal end-of-season ripening, resulting in structured yet elegant wines. The terroir comprises deep gravelly soils atop a clay subsoil, encouraging deep root growth and imparting a marked mineral character. Aged predominantly in French oak barrels, typically for 18–20 months, the wine develops notes of cassis, cedar, graphite, tobacco, and refined spice, backed by a firm tannic backbone and refreshing acidity that promise considerable longevity.

The Pauillac region lies on the Left Bank of the Gironde estuary and is renowned the world over for its concentration of classified growths and distinctive style, marked by power, structure, and complexity. This area is favoured by a temperate oceanic climate, which moderates extremes of temperature, while its gravel soils provide excellent drainage and heat retention, ensuring good ripening even in trickier years. Historically, Pauillac has been at the heart of the Bordeaux wine trade for centuries, playing a crucial role in shaping the global reputation of fine French wines.

To best complement a mature Pauillac such as the 2006 Château Pichon-Longueville Baron, opt for red meats – roast lamb with garlic and herbs, classic entrecôte à la Bordelaise with shallots and a red wine sauce or even rare prime rib are all excellent choices. Game such as venison or wild duck also pairs beautifully, as does a plate of mature hard cheeses like Comté or aged mimolette. Rich mushroom dishes and truffle-infused preparations will highlight the wine’s earthy undertones.

For serving, allow the bottle to breathe for at least one hour or decant to help soften the tannins and reveal the aromatic complexity. The ideal tasting temperature is 17–18°C, which will allow the bouquet to fully express itself while maintaining freshness. This wine is currently at a beautiful stage of maturity but will reward further cellaring for those who appreciate the depth of aged Bordeaux.