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ProducerPetrus
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Vintage2014
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Grape VarietyMerlot
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RegionBordeaux
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Sub RegionPomerol
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SizeBottle
Pétrus, one of the world`s rarest and most expensive wines was virtually unheard of 30 years ago. It was only when the Moueix family bought a half share in the property in 1962 that its true potential began to be fully realised. Pétrus is now under the direction of Christian Moueix and oenologist, Jean Claude Berrouet.
The 11.4 hectare vineyard is located on a plateau on the highest part of Pomerol in the far east of the appellation. The topsoil and the subsoil at Pétrus is almost all clay (in neigbouring properties the soil is a mixture of gravel-sand or clay-sand) and Merlot flourishes in this soil. Pétrus’ vineyard is planted with 95% Merlot.
The vines are unusually old and are only replanted after they reach 70 years of age. The grapes are hand harvested only in the afternoon, when the morning dew has evaporated, so as not to risk even the slightest dilution of quality. The grapes are fermented in cement vats and the wine is aged in 100% new oak barrels for 22-28 months. It is bottled unfiltered.
Pétrus is extraordinarily rich, powerful and concentrated, often with characteristics of chocolates, truffles, Asian spices and ultra-ripe, creamy, black fruits. Petrus is usually approachable after a decade or so in bottle, but the wines from the very greatest years will continue improving for many more years.
98 Points James Suckling
A wine evincing true enlightenment. It’s floral on the nose and also shows blackberries, stones, minerals and cedar. Full-bodied, yet its so fine-grained and tight. So, so long. It builds like a waterfall on the finish. The tannins are powerful yet superbly integrated and harmonious. Needs four to five years in bottle. Drink in 2023.
93-95 Points Robert Parker Wine Advocate
The Petrus 2014 was picked from 23 September until 4 October. Delivering 14.5% alcohol, the same as 2009 and 2010, which is being aged in 50% new oak and includes 3% vin de presse, is deceptively uncomplicated on the nose at first, but don’t be fooled. Affording it time to open (whilst videoing Olivier Berrouet) it develops very attractive blackberry, briary, violets and incense aromas that are beautifully defined. The palate is medium-bodied with tensile tannins. The acidity is very well judged with lightly grippy black fruit, a pleasant salinity surfacing towards the licorice and tar-tinged finish that fans out gradually. It does not have the length of a top tier vintage but as you would expect there is real class here. Perhaps it will be more approachable than other vintages thanks to the fineness of the tannins, but overall, this is a great wine under the guiding hand of Olivier Berrouet even if it is not the greatest Petrus he will ever make.