Chateau Petrus, Pomerol

Chateau Petrus is undoubtedly the most prestigious estate of the Pomerol designation (Protected Designation of Origin from the right bank of the Dordogne, near Bordeaux). Jean-Pierre Moueix has owned this exceptional vineyard since 1969. It covers 11.4 ha of vines that grow on very specific soils. Chateau Petrus’ terroir is indeed made of very fine and swelling black and blue clay called “montmorillonite” that creates an area of low atmospheric pressure; this type of soil absorbs and restore water drop by drop to the vine. The vines are about 40 years old, they are grown according to the sustainable winegrowing principles and made up of a single red grape variety: 100% Merlot (prior to 2010, there used to be half a hectare of Cabernet Franc that has been grubbed up).

Petrus only produces one red Bordeaux wine, and probably owes its worldwide fame to Mrs. Labat and Jean-Pierre Moueix. Madame Labat had always thought, since 1945, that Petrus had great potential, similar to Medoc First Great Classed Growths of the left bank. She even introduced the wine to the greatest personalities of England at Elizabeth II’s wedding. Mr. Moueix, a trader who used to sell Petrus wines, managed to make it the Kennedys’ favourite wine, which greatly helped to perpetuate its grandeur and incredible reputation. Petrus makes a rich, round and velvety wine, full of blackcurrant, cherry, liquorice, violet and truffle flavours. Petrus red wine is indeed quite concentrated, with opulent and fleshy fruit flavours, but it is also distinguished by its amazing balance and length on the palate. Petrus has already got the perfect score of 100 from Parker for its legendary vintages: 2010, 2009, 2000, 1990, 1989, 1961, 1947, 1929, 1921. Petrus’ wines have an exceptional ageing potential (more than 40 years)