CHATEAU PETRUS
Chateau Petrus is the most celebrated wine of Pomerol, and in fact the
world. It has been said that everything about Chateau Petrus is small-scale,
except for its wine and its reputation. The chateau itself is of modest
proportions. In fact, it is little more than a reception room, a hallway, one or
two little rooms above, and the cellars. The name is taken from St Peter who is
depicted on the label holding the keys to the property.
Chateau Petrus's
standing first became clear when it won a gold medal at the Paris Exhibition of
1878, the first wine from Pomerol to gain this distinction, and in an era when
such awards really carried weight. But its modern reputation is due to Madame
Loubat who steadily built up the quality of the wine with meticulous husbandry
and impeccable vinification. Like a great cook, she ensured that attention was
paid to every detail.
The vineyard was tended with the care of a garden, the
cuvier and chais were so immaculate that it seemed impossible that any work was
ever carried on there. Chateau Petrus also owes a great deal to Jean-Pierre
Moueix who ensured that it was distributed in such a way that it would acquire
the international reputation it deserved. Monsieur Moueix is not only a very
successful negociant, he is also a great connoisseur of many things that make
life noble.
After the death of Madame Loubat, her niece, Madame Lacoste-Loubat,
carried on the running of the property in partnership with Jean-Pierre Mouiex,
who has since become the controlling partner.
The wine of Chateau Petrus is
completely distinctive and different from those of surrounding properties. It
has an unctuous, almost chewy quality of richness and power in common with them,
but an exceptional depth of colour and a much clearer definition of flavour and
bouquet.
Vineyards:
30 acres producing 4,000 cases.
Classification:
Petrus is a famous growth of Pomerol
Grape Variety:
95% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc. Average age of vines is 42-45 years.
Top Chateau Petrus vintages produced:
1947, 1961, 1989, 1990, 1998, 2000, 2005 and 2008