The 2008 Pontet-Canet is a standout Pauillac, delivering power and finesse despite a challenging vintage. Rich in dark fruit, floral notes, and earthy minerality, it’s structured, vibrant, and full of aging potential—classic in style with a biodynamic edge.

The Wine Advocate | RP 96
Published: Feb 28, 2011
Drink: 2016-2046

A candidate for the “wine of the vintage,” Pontet Canet’s 2008 boasts an opaque purple color as well as copious aromas of sweet blueberries, blackberries and black currant fruit intertwined with lead pencil shavings, subtle barbecue smoke and a hint of forest floor. Full-bodied, with fabulous richness, texture and tremendous freshness, this first-growth-like effort is more developed than the uber-powerful 2010. Give it 5-8 years of cellaring and drink it over the following three decades. Bravo!

Decanter | D 95
Published: Jan 1, 2018
Drink: 2018-2036

Oh, I love this! This is Pauillac distilled, flirting on the edge of ripeness with brambly cassis and dark chocolate. This is just the right mix of open and closed for me, layered and confident but not overdone. It has feathery, well brushed tannins, and firm, generous black fruits. A great Pauillac which is just starting to rev its engine. Again, it's not as concentrated and long-living as in the ripest vintages, but it's a real success with decades ahead of it.

Jamessuckling.com | JS 94
Published: Jun 17, 2016

The minerality and floral character to this is really impressive with lots of bark, currant and dried rose character. Full body, chewy yet polished tannins and a mouthwatering finish. Made from biodynamcially grown grapes. Drink or hold.

Pontet-canet.com

After a difficult growing season in 2007, we were hoping for less troublesome times in 2008. But nature decided otherwise, bringing us four months of rain and a lack of sunshine during the summer. Fortunately, part of September was particularly hot and dry.
Using natural products and plants, we were able not only to withstand the pressure of disease but also to gain in precision. With our respectful approach to viticulture we seek to accompany the growth of our vines harmoniously and with a gentle touch.
And for the first time in over 40 years, we once again heard the sound of draft horses in an experiment intended to eliminate compaction of the soil.

Tasting 2008
A particularly intense colour heralds the quality of the vintage, while the mature nose expresses red and black fruit aromas with light oak and some floral notes.
On the palate, a very generous tannic structure is complemented by uncommon refinement and precision. Graced with succulent tannins, the wine has a vibrancy that captivates with its emotional appeal. The quintessence of the Pontet-Canet terroir!

Harvest: from October 1st to 17th
Grape varieties: 65% Cabernet Sauvignon - 30% Merlot 4% Cabernet Franc - 1% Petit Verdot
Alcohol: 13°