The first vine leaves of the year sprouted just as the ‘Primeur’ tastings of the 2008 vintage began. The enthusiasm with which our wine received encouraged us to continue our efforts to make our estate accurately express all the terroir’s subtlety while respecting nature and mankind.

This long, difficult path now seems to become clearer under our steps. Thanks to the huge and barely exploited resources nature has to offer, we are learning to better understand the Pontet-Canet terroir, the vines themselves and the diseases and pests that threaten them.

This appraisal of living things also involves a deep inner reflection. With a motivated, sincere and humble approach we give our vines the potential to naturally resist attacks without causing harm. This was especially useful at the beginning of the season when frequent rainfall reminded us of the last two years.

Fortunately, we were spared from devastating hailstorms. But the vision of ravaged vineyards leaves a lasting impression of injustice and waste for those who are its victims.

As summer arrived, the sun settled over the region lasting through the harvest season and bringing hope for the vintage.

At every stage of their development, we stood by our vines to lend a helping hand where needed. Each grape variety, in each terroir, requires specific care determined by means of observation and sense, demanding a constant presence in the vineyard.

For several years now our attention has naturally been focused on the Cabernet Sauvignon, the true soul of our wines. However, more recently, we have been keen to extend our focus onto the Merlot. It seems that the results have met our expectations as these wines seem to possess a gentle power that favors their association with the Cabernets.

Our animal ploughing project continues to develop. It requires deep insight and sincere long-term vision. The first results are promising and are beyond our expectations as the soil very soon renders the gestures of respect shown to it.

After more than 300 successive harvests at Château Pontet-Canet, 2009 will be remembered for the serenity that prevailed before and during the harvest.

With such potential, the grapes delivered the soul of the vines and the terroir with such ease that our work in the vatrooms were reduced to minor adjustments in the vats.

The exceptional quality will surely be demonstrated during the ‘Primeur’ tastings next spring. But for now this wine needs to be carefully watched over.