Petrus 2009

Petrus is one of the most prestigious estates in Bordeaux and undoubtedly the most important in Pomerol. The wine, 100% Merlo, comes from an 11.4 hectare (28 acre) vineyard in the eastern part of the Pomerol appellation, and is known for being rich and powerful, with chocolate, spice and black fruit characteristics.

The vineyards

The original 7-hectare (17-acre) vineyard is located on a hill where the soil is almost entirely clay. The high clay content is particularly suited to Merlot - a unique second layer of dense blue clay forces the root systems to spread sideways. This characteristic is often credited with giving Petrus its soft but abundant tannins.

Vinification

The grapes are carefully harvested by hand - one berry at a time, in the afternoon, after the morning dew has evaporated, to avoid any dilution. Fermentation takes place in concrete vats and the vats are carefully examined before assembly. Currently the amount of new oak is close to 50%. After 18 to 20 months in barrel, the wine is bottled without filtration.

Robert Parker's Tasting Notes

"Medium to deep garnet in color, the 2009 Petrus has glorious aromas of pickled plums, redcurrant jelly, dried rose petals, blackberry jam and blackberries, with hints of licorice, Chinese five spice and perfumed earth. Full, rich, luxuriously textured and oh-so-decadent, it reveals layer upon layer of spice box, black fruit and ferrous notions, finishing long and fragrant." By Lisa Perrotti-Brown in Robert Parker

Varieties: 100% Merlot