Les Tourelles de Longueville represents the esteemed second wine of Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, a Deuxième Cru Classé estate in Pauillac. Sourced from specific parcels within the vineyard, often from younger vines or those expressing a more immediate profile, it offers a compelling insight into the estate's terroir and winemaking philosophy.
The 2011 vintage in Bordeaux presented a season of contrasts, ultimately yielding wines of classic structure and freshness, particularly on the Left Bank. This expression from Pauillac showcases the appellation's characteristic gravelly soils, which impart a distinct mineral backbone and contribute to the wine's aromatic complexity and ageing potential. While crafted for earlier accessibility than its grand vin, Les Tourelles de Longueville 2011 retains the inherent elegance and precision expected from this prestigious lineage, reflecting a careful selection and a balanced oak regime designed to complement rather than overpower the fruit.
Tasting notes
The 2011 Les Tourelles de Longueville presents a nuanced aromatic profile, revealing notes of cassis, cedar, and graphite, interwoven with subtle hints of tobacco leaf and dried herbs that speak to its Pauillac origins and evolving maturity. On the palate, it offers a medium-bodied structure with refined tannins that have softened gracefully over time. The fruit core, while not overtly opulent, is precise and persistent, supported by a fresh acidity that carries through to a clean, savoury finish. This vintage exemplifies a classic Left Bank expression, showcasing balance and understated elegance.