Château Pichon-Longueville Baron 1996 is a classic, refined Pauillac style.

This elegant, turreted mid-19th century château, which derives its name from Jacques de Pichon, Baron of Longueville who began planting vineyards in the 17th century, was one of the appellation’s greatest underachievers up until the mid-80s – barely living up to its lofty second growth status. Then along came AXA, the giant insurance conglomerate.

AXA employed Jean-Michel Cazes to take charge of the winemaking and vineyards, and the turnaround was nothing short of dramatic, the estate rising to superstar status amongst Bordeaux’s elite in the 1990s. The estate is often referred to as a ’super second’ these days, its wines belying its second growth classification.

"A fresh, lifted, cedary nose with excellent definition. Reserved, understated but classy. The full-bodied palate is quite toasty but fresh with good delineation. Blackberry, tar, cedar and just a faint touch of white pepper. Harmonious and focused. Very persistent finish. Excellent." eRobertParker.com