The 2014 Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is a Second Growth Pauillac from Bordeaux, known for its elegance and power. It exhibits a classic nose of lead pencil, camphor, cassis, and black fruits. On the palate, it is mid-weight with a fresh, crisp profile, offering silky tannins, ripe, polished dark red fruits, and a lush, balanced finish. The wine is densely hued, fragrant, and full of fruit, with a structure that suggests good aging potential. It is certified biodynamic, reflecting sustainable vineyard practices, and features an unusually high percentage of Petit Verdot, which adds freshness and aromatic complexity.
Food Pairings
The wine’s savory and classic red style pairs excellently with:
- Beef: Grilled or roasted cuts, such as ribeye or filet mignon.
- Venison: Rich game meats complement the wine’s dark fruit and structured tannins.
- Lamb: Slow-cooked or roasted lamb dishes enhance the wine’s black-currant and earthy notes.
- Hard Cheeses: Aged cheddar or gouda can balance the wine’s intensity.
Critics Reviews
The 2014 vintage has received strong praise:
- Wine-Searcher: 93/100 based on 21 critic reviews, highlighting its savory and classic style.
- Wine Enthusiast: Notes the wine as “warm and ripe” with “beautifully balanced” black-currant fruits and a darker, structured side.
- CellarTracker: Described as a “very decent Pauillac” even for an off-year, praised for being “powerful yet elegant.”
- Wine Berserkers (May 2, 2018): Praises its “classic nose” and “fresh, crisp” palate with a nice range of darker fruits.
- The Wine Cellar Insider: Calls it “classic, yet lushly textured” with “silky tannins” and a finish that “tastes as good as it feels.”
Drink Window
The 2014 Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is slowly entering its drinking window, with critics suggesting it is approachable now (2025) but will continue to develop. Given its structure, it is likely to peak around 2025–2035, with potential to age well into the early 2040s for well-stored bottles.
