The Château Pontet-Canet Pauillac Vertical Case 1990-1999 is an exceptional selection for collectors and connoisseurs alike. This case includes six distinct vintages from one of Bordeaux's most esteemed estates, showcasing the evolution of Pontet-Canet over a decade of highly regarded wines. 

A Collection of the Best Vintages from the 1990s

This vertical case showcases some of the most highly rated vintages of the decade including the stunning 1994, 1995 and 1996. The wines are in pristine condition, having spent more than 20 years ageing gracefully in the safety of the Chateau's cellars. This presents a rare opportunity for Bordeaux aficionados and Pontet Canet lovers to experience mature vintages of the estate in their prime.

Due to a dearth of Pontet-Canet back vintages in the market, they are extremely rare and highly coveted around the world. Coupled with very limited quantities of this vertical case being released globally, demand is expected to skyrocket and serious buyers should act fast before it sells out.

Ratings:

Château Pontet-Canet 1990
The Wine Advocate: RP 96
JamesSuckling.com: JS 96
Decanter: D 94
JancisRobinson.com: JR 18

Tasting Notes: This vintage is considered one of the best for Pontet-Canet, with exceptional aging potential. It's a classic Bordeaux that balances power, elegance, and complexity, offering wine enthusiasts a chance to experience the greatness of this estate at its peak. The wine is drinking wonderfully now but still has years of life left for further aging.

Château Pontet-Canet 1994
The Wine Advocate: RP 91
JamesSuckling.com: JS 93
Drink: 2022-2032+

Tasting Notes: Known for its finesse and depth, the 1994 Pontet-Canet offers a complex nose of dark fruits, graphite, and a hint of licorice. The wine is still young with plenty of tannin structure, giving it the potential to age for years.

Château Pontet-Canet 1995
The Wine Advocate: RP 93
JamesSuckling.com: JS 94
Drink: 2023-2035+

Tasting Notes: The 1995 vintage is a standout, offering depth and elegance. It’s rich and concentrated with blackberry, cassis, and a subtle hint of herbs. The tannins are strong but well integrated, and the wine is remarkably balanced, with a long and persistent finish.

Château Pontet-Canet 1996
The Wine Advocate: RP 94
JamesSuckling.com: JS 95
Drink: 2023-2040+

Tasting Notes: A classic vintage, the 1996 Pontet-Canet is structured and powerful, with ripe dark fruits and earthy, mineral undertones. This wine is in its prime, with well-integrated tannins and an elegant finish that showcases the balance of the vintage.

Château Pontet-Canet 1998
The Wine Advocate: RP 94
JamesSuckling.com: JS 94
Decanter: D 94
Drink: 2025-2045

Tasting Notes: The wine has a deep, dark color with a bouquet of ripe dark fruits and earthy nuances. On the palate, it is elegant, with well-integrated tannins and an excellent balance of acidity. The finish is long, with a touch of spice and minerality. A classic Bordeaux with a smooth, velvety texture, it has aged beautifully.

Château Pontet-Canet 1999
The Wine Advocate: RP 94
JamesSuckling.com: JS 94
Decanter: D 92

Tasting Notes: This wine is celebrated for its complexity, balance, and aging potential, offering a fantastic opportunity for those looking to explore an older vintage from Pontet-Canet. It is drinking well now but still has ample life ahead for those wishing to cellar it further.

Technical Specs

Alcohol: 13.0-13.5%
Closure: Natural Cork
Harvest: 1990–1999 — 1990, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1998 & 1999
Oak: Traditional French oak ageing; proportions varied by vintage
Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon-led Bordeaux blend with Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot
Vineyard Area: Approx. 81ha
Soil: Deep gravel over clay and limestone
Harvest: Hand-picked, with harvest dates varying by vintage
Vinification: Traditional Bordeaux fermentation with individual parcel and varietal vinification, followed by barrel ageing and extended bottle maturation
Region: Pauillac, Bordeaux, France
Classification: 5ème Grand Cru Classé, 1855 Classification
Case: 6 x 750ml — one bottle each of 1990, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1998 & 1999

Serving Temperature: 16–18°C
Decanting: 1–2 hours recommended; older bottles should be decanted carefully to remove sediment
Food Pairing: Roast lamb, côte de boeuf, beef Wellington, venison, duck, roasted mushrooms, truffle dishes and mature hard cheeses