Petrus 1999 Chateau Petrus

Château Pétrus: The Icon of Bordeaux’s Pomerol

Château Pétrus, often considered one of the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world, is a name synonymous with luxury, exceptional quality, and historical significance in the Bordeaux wine region. Located in the Pomerol appellation, Pétrus is particularly famous for producing wines that are both powerful and elegant, with an extraordinary aging potential that has made it a highly coveted collectible for wine enthusiasts worldwide.

History and Philosophy

The history of Château Pétrus dates back to the 18th century, but its rise to international fame began in the 20th century, particularly under the leadership of Jean-Pierre Moueix, who acquired the estate in 1945. His vision and meticulous approach to wine production, alongside his commitment to preserving the unique character of the Pomerol terroir, allowed Pétrus to reach an unparalleled level of excellence. Today, Christian Moueix continues to manage the estate, ensuring that Pétrus remains at the pinnacle of wine production.

Château Pétrus has always adhered to a philosophy of minimal intervention, focusing on letting the terroir express itself through the wine. This approach, paired with a commitment to the highest standards of viticulture and winemaking, results in wines that are intensely flavorful and age-worthy.

Grape Variety

Pétrus is renowned for its dominance of the Merlot grape, which makes up around 95% of the blend. The remaining 5% consists of Cabernet Franc, contributing to the wine’s structure and complexity. The Merlot vines are planted on red clay soils, a key feature of the terroir, which imparts a unique richness and roundness to the wine, resulting in wines that are full-bodied, opulent, and yet elegantly balanced.

Winemaking and Aging Process

The winemaking process at Château Pétrus is a careful, hands-on approach that ensures the quality and character of each vintage are preserved. The estate employs strict sustainable viticulture practices, emphasizing the health of the vineyard and the environment.

• Harvesting: Grapes are hand-picked to ensure only the ripest and healthiest berries are used for fermentation.

• Fermentation: Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, allowing for slow, controlled extraction of flavors and tannins. The fermentation process is done with native yeasts to maintain the authenticity of the terroir.

• Aging: After fermentation, the wine is aged in new French oak barrels for approximately 18-24 months, which adds complexity and depth while maintaining the signature Pétrus style. The aging process enhances the wine’s velvety texture and further integrates the flavors of ripe fruit, earthy undertones, and subtle oak nuances.

Tasting Notes

Château Pétrus is a wine of extraordinary complexity and elegance, with a depth of flavors that evolve over time. The wine is known for its rich, deep color and aromatic intensity.

• Color: Deep ruby with purple highlights, which deepens as the wine ages.

• Aroma: A bouquet of ripe red fruits, such as cherry and plum, complemented by nuances of earth, truffle, and violets. The oak aging adds spice and tobacco aromas that become more pronounced with time.

• Taste: On the palate, Pétrus is full-bodied, with velvety, soft tannins that give it an almost creamy texture. The wine’s complexity continues to unfold with flavors of blackberries, chocolate, and coffee, along with earthy and mineral notes that add further layers of depth. Its long finish lingers with a harmonious balance of acidity and fruit.

Food Pairings

Given its richness and complexity, Pétrus pairs wonderfully with rich, savory dishes. Some ideal pairings include:

• Roasted lamb or beef tenderloin

• Duck with a rich berry sauce

• Mature cheeses, such as Comté or Brie

• Truffle-based dishes, which complement the earthy undertones of the wine

Serving Suggestions

For the best experience, Château Pétrus should be served at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-64°F). Decanting is highly recommended, especially for younger vintages, as it allows the wine to breathe and fully express its aromas and flavors.

Alcohol Content

The wine typically has an alcohol content of around 14%, which contributes to its structure and mouthfeel while maintaining balance with its fruit and acidity.

Conclusion

Château Pétrus is not merely a wine but a symbol of opulence and craftsmanship. Its unique terroir, careful winemaking process, and ability to age gracefully make it one of the most sought-after wines in the world. Whether enjoyed upon release or cellared for decades, Pétrus remains a testament to the extraordinary potential of the Pomerol region and the dedication of the Moueix family to producing wines of unparalleled quality.