Chateau Pontet-Canet

Address: Château Pontet-Canet 33250 Pauillac France

Telephone: +33 (0)5 56 59 04 04

Visits: By appointment only

Details: Pauillac, 5ème cru classé, 81ha, gravel on clay and limestone

Vineyards: Cabernet Sauvignon 60%, Merlot Noir 33%, Cabernet Franc 5%, Petit Verdot 2%

History:

Pontet-Canet is distinguished as much by its steady line of ownership – just three families since it was founded in the early 18th century – as it is by its somewhat tumultous swings in quality. Its early days were characterised by much success as choice plots were assembled by Jean-Francois de Pontet, then royal governor of the Médoc, and expanded by later generations who added neighbouring land from the region of Canet. By the turn of the century, the estate was huge, but with the death of the dedicated Pierre-Bernard de Pontet in 1836, quality tailed off. Enter the second owning family, the Cruses: thanks to their massive investment and efforts, in particular by Herman Cruse, the Château’s fortunes were transformed. Unfortunately when Herman died, other family members showed less dedication and the wine gradually declined in quality and reputation. After 110 years of Cruse ownership, it was the turn of the Tesserons, under whom the estate has risen again. Guy Tesseron began the climb back in 1975 – an ascent continued today under sons Alfred and Gérard, who have restructured the vineyard and renovated the cellars and buildings.

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Content written and compiled by the Decanter Team