PICHON LALANDE & PICHON BARON (Wine Collecting)

[@AttorneySomm]

For more information about Super Second Bordeaux, please watch the following video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z2monmhpacx0sKs

[@sanjaypatelmd4669]

what is fair price for vega wisoli’s unicorn 2011 vintage?

[@AttorneySomm]

@@sanjaypatelmd4669 On single bottles, $375-$399 seems to be the low range. The average is much higher so it pays to shop around.

[@sanjaypatelmd4669]

@@AttorneySomm Costco has it for $430

[@AttorneySomm]

@@sanjaypatelmd4669 Seems a bit high. KL is definitely less. Benchmark too.

[@sanjaypatelmd4669]

@@AttorneySomm KL can’t ship us here. I am going to look into Benchmark

[@fredsmith3001]

In the mid '80s, I had the privilege of participating in a vertical tasting of Pichon Lalande that included the 1945 vintage. That remains the most incredible red wine I have ever tasted. The weight, body, complexity, and concentration of that wine was exponentially greater than all of the other vintages. It still gives me chills when I think of it. I've had some of the great '82s, such as Mouton Rothschild and Leoville Las Cases, and they don't come anywhere close..

[@AttorneySomm]

Sounds like an incredible experience! Such an amazing producer. Definitely one of my favorites. Thanks for weighing in! 👍🍷

[@joesantamaria5874]

Pichon Lalande 1990 was my introduction to high end Bordeaux back in 1992, and was an unforgettable experience. Over the years, I’ve grown to love Baron more, and toured the cellars a few years ago, where I picked up a magnum of ‘16 in a lovely wooden box, which is now asleep in my cellar. It’s going to have to be a big occasion to crack it open! 😎

[@AttorneySomm]

Very nice! That one will be epic!

[@margauxml]

This is, unequivocally, the best, most comprehensive, most interesting, and most authoritative presentation and discussion of Pichon Lalande and Pichon Baron that I’ve ever come across with on social media and on the Internet in general. In particular, I enjoyed the parts about the grape-growing and winemaking philosophies as well as wine-buying strategies and recommended vintages. I’m also glad that chivalry is alive and well on your KZbin channel - Lalande before Baron; the feminine before the masculine.😂 Your videos are always so well-thought-out, so well researched, and so well produced that it’s difficult to imagine you still have time for sleeping and eating.😂 It’s quite impressive how you manage your time and successfully create content like this - Felicitations! I won’t forget to update you if and when I find a reasonably priced Pichon second wine in my country - or my purchase will just have to wait until my next trip to France in which case i will be needing more advice and recommendations from you. Merci beaucoup et santé, John!

[@AttorneySomm]

So pleased you enjoyed it, Margaux! It can be a challenge sometimes, but I try very hard to publish my weekly video. These have long been two of my favorites, so thought an in-depth review would be appropriate. Hope you can track them down. Such a shame about pricing! Thanks for the kind words! Santè!

[@AttorneySomm]

So pleased you enjoyed it, Margaux! It can be a challenge sometimes, but I try very hard to publish my weekly video. These have long been two of my favorites, so thought an in-depth review would be appropriate. Hope you can track them down. Such a shame about pricing! Thanks for the kind words! Santè!

[@margauxml]

@@AttorneySomm You’re welcome, John! It’s always a pleasure to watch and appreciate your videos. And I always learn something new from your content whether on your KZbin channel or on your Instagram page. Looking forward to the next one!

[@AttorneySomm]

@@margauxml Thanks, Margaux! That means a lot! Truly appreciate it.

[@margauxml]

@@AttorneySomm You’re always welcome, John!

[@michaelsim4440]

Fantastic video! Clear explanation of the history and vintages, 2nd wines and insights of turning organic and biodynamic. This the first time i stumbled on your post.. will be exploring more..thank you for sharing.

[@AttorneySomm]

Thanks very much! Glad you enjoyed it! I'm a huge Bordeaux fan and have published dozens of videos about various Bordeaux topics. There are some play lists I created that may help you narrow down the videos of interest. Cheers!

[@michaelsim4440]

Thanks.. I am in fact looking at them now.. really good work you have done.. respect.

[@michaelsim4440]

Quick question, you mentioned the white wine made with Chardonnay, is Chardonnay a permitted grape in Bordeaux?

[@AttorneySomm]

@@michaelsim4440 Very glad to hear it! Appreciate the positive feedback.

[@AttorneySomm]

@@michaelsim4440 Great question! That will typically impact labeling. They could not call it Bordeaux AOC, for example. They may have to use something like Vin de France or Vin de Pays on the label.

[@philfischer4115]

Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is a mesmerizing masterpiece in the world of wine. From the moment I set foot on its historic grounds, I was transported to a realm of elegance and tradition that left me utterly amazed. The lush vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, the charming chateau with its timeless architecture, and the rich history dating back to the 17th century all contributed to an unforgettable experience. But it's the wine itself that truly stole my heart. The Comtesse de Lalande produces some of the most exquisite Bordeaux wines, characterized by their complexity, depth, and remarkable balance. The blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc creates a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate. My visit to Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande was a sensory journey that I will cherish forever. It's a place where tradition meets innovation, and where every sip tells a story. If you're a wine enthusiast or simply appreciate the finer things in life, this chateau is an absolute must-visit.

[@AttorneySomm]

Thanks very much for your eloquent and well-written comment! So glad that you enjoyed your visit and that you are enamored with the wines! I completely agree with you and this has long been one of my favorite producers! They are definitely at the top of their game right now!

[@philfischer4115]

@@AttorneySomm I totally agree I just wish I wasn’t on the verge of bankruptcy I’d buy five cases!

[@AttorneySomm]

@@philfischer4115 That second wine is also one of the best wines around for $50!

[@sipsavor.sights8210]

So much great information and photos packed in to this video! Beautifully explained the differences between Pauillac’s two famous second growths. I really enjoyed learning your favorite vintages, buying strategies and your thoughts about these extraordinary wines. Thanks for a well done video and for sharing your endless stream of knowledge! So informative! Cheers John!

[@AttorneySomm]

Cheers, Joy! Thanks for watching and the kind words. Very glad you enjoyed it! Such fantastic producers. Hope you enjoy the rest of your weekend!

[@seanthorntonmd3908]

What a treat to find this video! I stayed for a week at Chateau Pichon Baron during a once in a lifetime tour of Bordeaux in 2013, where I first was introduced to these wines. Will be adding Les Tourelles and more Lalande Reserve to my Pichon holdings thanks to your recommendations. Love all of your videos....I've learned so much. Thanks for all you do!

[@AttorneySomm]

Thanks very much! Sounds like a fantastic visit! Very glad you enjoy the videos. Those are excellent wines and such compelling values! Cheers!

[@joesantamaria5874]

Interesting! When I toured the winery a few years ago, I was told by our guide that the chateau was used to host “dignitaries” from the wine industry (likely journalists, who were being schmoozed by the chateau), curious to know if that policy has changed.

[@AttorneySomm]

@@joesantamaria5874 I’m not sure about that, but it would not surprise me.

[@TheSouthernVine]

Thank you for your videos, very informative and I’ve enjoyed them all. Would you mind, or perhaps consider, a short video on the books behind you? I just finished (listening) to Wine and War and I’m looking for more books to help me along my journey.

[@AttorneySomm]

Thank you! I actually did such a video a couple years ago. Here is a link. 3 TOP Wine Books For Wine Enthusiasts (Attorney Somm) kzbin.info/www/bejne/q3jMoH93nJJmqZo

[@davidkarin3443]

Great video. I will be visiting Pichon Baron in May for their immersive half day tour. Will definitely be picking up a couple bottles to bring home to Canada .

[@AttorneySomm]

Thanks! That should be a terrific visit! Excellent idea re: the wines. Always so much less expensive there.

[@davidkarin3443]

It is. They sent me a price list of wine for purchase at the shop and it’s considerably less than what we pay for it here in Toronto

[@drmatthewhorkey]

I like both… Properties are stunning… Big fan of the Les Griffons..

[@AttorneySomm]

Thank you! Completely agree on all counts.

[@johnnyblue1101]

The legendary Kevin Zraly introduced me to the seductive Pichon Baron 1990 (in Manhattan) some years ago during a classy vertical tasting. It stole the show. Massive flavor notes with a long silky finish. Even so, don’t go sleeping on Pichon Lalande - the Comtesse! In practicality any vintage

[@AttorneySomm]

Completely agree on both counts! Thanks for sharing that experience! Very cool. 👍🍷

[@johnnyblue1101]

By the way, my daughter and I enjoyed a self-guided tour of both the Left Bank and the Right Bank of Bordeaux some years ago while she was taking her second year of college in Lyon. Many surprises traveling there by private car but all in all a great vacation for us, especially the daytrip to St Emilion on a picture perfect day during May. Still haven’t forgave her for letting her camera run out of juice directly in front of Chateau Palmer. Oh well. Got some good photos of the fairy tale chateau and vineyard at Lafite Rothschild, however. To end, among the elite French wine regions (as a visitor) I prefer the wholesome people, food and welcoming ambiance of Burgundy. Planning to go back there as there is so much to learn along the incomparable Cote Nuits.

[@AttorneySomm]

@@johnnyblue1101 Thanks for sharing that. Sounds like a terrific trip! I hope to do a couple days in Burgundy next month! It will be a quick one this time but very much looking forward to it!

[@andrewriley8110]

As always, a fantastically well researched video. Just bought a couple of bottles of Comtesse Reserve 2019 to try off the back of this, do you think I should risk one now or give it another year or two?

[@AttorneySomm]

Thanks very much! It will definitely be better in a year or two, so I would try to wait a bit if you can.

[@danielplainview4778]

Great video as always AS, throughly enjoyed watching it over my morning coffee. These are both 380 on release in Vancouver, BC (Typical Canadian insane price difference) but two of my favourites even at that price.

[@AttorneySomm]

Thanks very much! Glad you enjoyed it! Definitely two of my favorites as well. Such a shame about the pricing. Do you enjoy the second wines as well?

[@danielplainview4778]

@@AttorneySomm it’s interesting I drink a lot of Bordeaux and I can count on one hand the amount of second wines I’ve ever consumed. I think this is mostly because most of the more seasoned people I drink wine with somewhat poo poo second or third wines so they never seem to show up in any tasting I’m at. I should give a couple a try.

[@AttorneySomm]

@@danielplainview4778 Same here. I ended up blinding some buddies on the 2010 Haut-Brion second wine. They loved it and then I did the reveal.

[@ronmcmartin4513]

@@AttorneySomm--I've heard Clarence is one of the best 2nds recently. But at $165-200, wouldn't you rather have a 2018-20 Pichon Baron or Smith, and "baby-kill" it? I know, you did it for "Science"!

[@AttorneySomm]

@@ronmcmartin4513 Ha! I actually bought a few of the 2010 HB Clarence on release at lower prices. An excellent vintage for Clarence. I opened it in May and that was the first one I opened. I don't typically open many younger bottles from my cellar. I mostly taste young wines when visiting wineries, at trade events or when doing blind tastings with friends. I do agree that the '18-20 PB and SHL are outstanding wines and compelling values at those price points. But knowing me, I'd still wait a decade to open one.

[@sanjaypatelmd4669]

I just bought case of this wine 2020 vintage

[@AttorneySomm]

Very nice! For Baron, Lalande or both?

[@sanjaypatelmd4669]

@@AttorneySomm Both.

[@AttorneySomm]

@@sanjaypatelmd4669 Well done! You will be very happy with them. 👍🍷

[@Docbyday]

Thanks for the very comprehensive deep-dive into Pichon Lalande and Pichon Baron! Is the Reserve de la Comtesse more accessible while young? I’m contemplating getting a 2016 and have my eyes on a 2009 Pichon Lalande (that I’m worried may not be on its drinking window yet)

[@AttorneySomm]

My pleasure! Glad you enjoyed it. Yes, the second wine is definitely the better choice for early drinking. The 2009 is a relatively approachable vintage. The 2009 Pichon Lalande is already incredible, but will improve if you can wait a bit. With a couple more years it will have more complexity from some tertiary descriptors. But you will still love it if you open it soon. It is an incredible wine!

[@davidkarin3443]

Have you had a chance to try the 2021 vintage? I’ve been looking at the future market deciding whether I should buy or not.

[@AttorneySomm]

I have not tried them yet. Based on the critical reviews, it seems like Pichon Lalande may be one of the wines of the vintage and Pichon Baron did well too. They seem like reasonable purchases, although my personal preference is to go heavier in stronger vintages. Down the road, you can never have enough of these blue chip wines from top vintages, both for personal consumption or for potential re-sale.

[@davidkarin3443]

@@AttorneySomm I visited the chateau a month ago. Nicolas told me it was a difficult vintage but they felt like they produced a very good wine. We tried the 2016 and 2011 during our visit and I thought the 2011 tasted excellent even though it came from a vintage that wasn’t deemed amazing.

[@AttorneySomm]

@@davidkarin3443 Thank you. Yes, they are making excellent wines each vintage. They also tend to charge less during so-called "off vintages." So there are some advantages to these vintages. Whatever works best for you.

[@davidkarin3443]

@@AttorneySomm Thanks for the great advice. Great spot on the XChateau podcast!

[@AttorneySomm]

@@davidkarin3443 My pleasure! Glad it was helpful and that you enjoyed the podcast! Cheers!

[@willhaowu]

To me it is always tough to pick between: a second wine of a great estate like the pichons, and a similarly-priced grand vin of a good qpr estate( like a Branaire ducru or maybe a talbot), particularly because the second wines are usually a very different style compared to the first wines. Personally I may even lean towards the latter. Love to hear what you think about this.

[@AttorneySomm]

Thank you. Very much agree. Second wines usually have a much higher Merlot content and less new oak maturation and are made in a style designed to be enjoyed younger. This makes them more approachable from the start. Top wines from QPR estates are still made to be capable of long-term aging so they will not be as enjoyable young. So a lot of it depends on your time frame. If you want to open the bottle soon (e.g., first 5 years), I'd definitely go with the second wine in many instances.

[@willhaowu]

@@AttorneySomm completely agree with this thought. In that sense they are great “cellar defenders”, as you would say.

[@AttorneySomm]

@@willhaowu Yes! Exactly right.

[@cruelreality7600]

I found a reasonably good deal on the pichon baron 2019/2016 and the prices are listed as the same for both. Which would you suggest?

[@AttorneySomm]

Both are excellent but 2016 received a 100 from D and already has a few more years on it, so I would pick that one assuming it has been properly stored.

[@cruelreality7600]

@@AttorneySomm my thoughts exactly, I appreciate how interactive you are with your listeners greatly along with the advice.

[@AttorneySomm]

@@cruelreality7600 Thank you! I certainly do my best to respond to all comments timely.

[@sanjaypatelmd4669]

Love both! Visited them on our Bordeaux trip!

[@AttorneySomm]

Thank you! Same here! Two of my favorites!

[@gogreenmsu03]

I was hoping to taste the 2020 Pichon Lalande at UGC last week. Heard it was generally considered wine of the event. Parental responsibilities kept me home (and also keep me from buying many bottles at that price point - I’ve been buying one high-priced Bordeaux bottle per vintage recently: Pontet-Canet in 2018, Lynch Bages in 2019. Perhaps Pichon Lalande 2020).

[@AttorneySomm]

Sorry you missed the UGC event. Pichon Lalande would be an excellent choice for 2020! The second wine is outstanding as well and at a fraction of the cost. It has really taken its quality to a whole new level that past 5-6 vintages.

[@gogreenmsu03]

I will definitely look into both PL and PB second wines. Great tip. Easy to overlook them when dreaming of the Grand Vins.

[@AttorneySomm]

@@gogreenmsu03 Agreed. Not as exciting but compelling values that can be enjoyed more frequently. 👍🍷

[@ronmcmartin4513]

Good choice "Vintage" over "Producer". I'd rather have a "95-point" wine from an excellent vintage for $50, than a "92-point" wine from an excellent Producer in an average vintage for $75. Atty Somm(Dr Horkey) and I have differing opinions on 2nd wines(95pt for $50 vs 92pt 2nd for $75) for the same reason. I find Pauillac(and Pomerol) overpriced. Better wines in Pessac & Margaux for $50. If Pauillac is a must, 2019 Haut Bages Liberal(Atty Somm recco) or Battailley(not Haut) for $40-50.

[@AttorneySomm]

@@ronmcmartin4513 I'm a huge proponent of loading up on strong vintages as well. In fact, I did a video about not worrying about verticals primarily because I often skip weaker vintages and stock up during strong vintages. But I also try to buy from producers I trust in those top vintages. I do think that there are some worthwhile second wines, especially given the severe selection used by many Bordeaux producers today. A lot of that fruit was in the top wines 10-15 years ago. I don't have a huge percentage of them, but I think they can be a good way for people to get introduced to a particular producer before they invest in the top wine. For others who enjoy the top wine and adore a particular producer, second wines are excellent cellar defenders that you can enjoy much earlier. $40-$50 for a PLL or PB second wine seems like a pretty appealing proposition, especially in these strong vintages like 2018-2020.

[@jgcastro000]

@Attorney Somm at what point does one actually start enjoying the cellar collection? I have a handful of wines I'm waiting on, but I always wondered when is the day when people say, "i'm done with cellar defenders. I'm going primetime!"

[@AttorneySomm]

Great question! For the first couple years I sourced some older vintages that were ready to go immediately to tide me over. And of course there are things like Rioja that can be new releases from 2010 etc. Once you have a critical mass of bottles and lots of options it gets much easier. It is a bit of a struggle early on though.

[@jgcastro000]

@@AttorneySomm so which are the bottles you’re most looking forward to opening one day. The Mount Rushmore bottles?

[@AttorneySomm]

@@jgcastro000 Definitely a 1989 Haut-Brion. Have tried it a few times, but only own the one bottle. 2002 Salon Champagne as well. And 1982 Dom from Magnum.

[@jgcastro000]

@@AttorneySomm recently acquired a 2015 Sassicaia. I don't have your patience or cellar. When do you recommend I should drink it, if it's on the sooner side? Thanks! I enjoy your channel.

[@AttorneySomm]

@@jgcastro000 Sassicaia can also show reasonably well in the mid-term. So I think if you can wait another year or so it should be in a pretty good place, provided you give it a long decant. Very glad you enjoy the channel! Thanks!

[@vinceslapchopper]

Considering the recent success and reliable vintage since the mid 2010s, would you recommand to buy wine futures for both Pichon Baron and Comtesse? And do you think it's worth paying more for the Comtesse, I have heard it's superior in quality than its Baron brother in the wine circles. The considerable investments from the Roederer group you mentionned in your video is also a compelling argument to buy Comtesse, even though it will take some years before we see the effect of the new ownership bearing fruits.

[@AttorneySomm]

Yes, provided that you have time to wait, I definitely think futures for both would be a good idea. As much as I enjoy Pichon Baron, I do think that Pichon Lalande is worth a modest premium. The investments made by Roederer have already started to pay off, but will keep paying dividends down the road as well. They are replanting 3 ha of vines at a time. Once that is done and the newly-planted vineyards start to get more age on them, the wines will be even better. A very exciting time for Pichon Lalande.

[@ronmcmartin4513]

They are different. Generally, Baron is more Powerful(Calon Segur/Cos D'Estournel, Ste Estephe); Lalande is more Elegant(Smith Haut Lafitte, Pessac. Palmer, Margaux).

[@NatashaRaisorGlam]

Thanks for the wine history lesson🤗🍷

[@AttorneySomm]

My pleasure, Natasha! Thanks for watching and the kind words. Glad you enjoyed it! Two of my favorite producers. Hope you have a terrific weekend!

[@sanjaypatelmd4669]

This makes John’s videos very interesting and informative

[@ronmcmartin4513]

"Everybody loves Pichon" ...But not everybody can afford them.

[@AttorneySomm]

Yes, that is why I discussed the second wines extensively. Those are a small fraction of the top wines and excellent values.

[@HolmScott]

Should I drink my 2000 Baron?

[@AttorneySomm]

It is still quite young and is just starting to develop tertiary complexity. While it would be very enjoyable now, I would probably give it another 5 years if you can. If you do open it, I would give it a 4-5 hour decant. Should be an outstanding wine when you do open it!

[@jacob9540]

Tried the unreleased 2020 vintage of both of these last month. Both insanely powerful but with impeccable balance already. I think the 2020 vintage will be one for the books!

[@AttorneySomm]

Thanks for weighing in! Yes, completely agree with you about the 2020s! Cheers!

[@MichaelYoung-gl8ou]

The second wine tasted like it's from Napa.

[@AttorneySomm]

These days a lot of young Bordeaux are hard to distinguish from Napa in a blind tasting. Napa has been reducing the amount of new French oak used for maturation and Bordeaux vintages have been getting warmer.

[@oscarayala3]

Pichon Comtesse Reserve since 2017*

[@AttorneySomm]

Thanks.