2019 Picque Caillou
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Tasting notes
Tasted from bottle, the 2019 Picque-Caillou exhibits aromas of berry compote, dark chocolate, bay leaf and pipe tobacco. Medium to full-bodied, velvety and enveloping, it's seamless and polished, its fleshy core of fruit framed by melting tannins and ripe acids. This is an open, giving wine that's drinking well out of the gates.
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot. Black core, inky rim. Intense aroma of cassis. Smells very pure. But on the palate, dry and chewy and a bit flat. Could do with a little more freshness. Slightly sour aftertaste. (JH)
The 2019 Picque Caillou was missing a little fruit intensity on the nose, both bottles a bit sullen and needing more concentration. The palate is better with an attractive grainy texture, fine tannins and especially the finish with its peppery black fruit laced with sea salt. If the aromatics can up their game then it will merit a higher score in bottle.
The 2019 Château Picque Caillou checks in as 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot that's still resting in 40% new French oak. This medium-bodied, elegant Graves has plenty of mulled dark fruits, chocolate, and herbal notes as well as a focused, slightly narrow, tight style on the palate. I like its tannins, and if it opens up once bottled, it will merit a higher rating.
About the producer
Neighbouring Haut-Brion and Pape Clément, this estate has been turned around since Paulin Calvet took over in 2007. Working with the legendary late Denis Dubourdieu and Valérie Lavigne, results have been impressive.