This wine review is of the second wine of Bordeaux cru classé Château Pédesclaux, the Fleur de Pédesclaux, a wine I have not previously encountered. With Château Pédesclaux’s reported critical mixed fortunes, it is no surprise to read that the estate is undergoing a regeneration. From afar, the position seemed quixotic. The Pauillac appellation usually, and indeed probably most of the time, amounts to a guarantee of high quality. Perhaps because of this, and for the collection minded, it is one of a handful of cru classés seen generally only in passing glimpses in Australia.
Tasted in France, the Fleur de Pédesclaux proved to be something of a modest expression of Pauillac despite it being from the strong 2020 vintage. Perhaps the vintage was too warm for the blend chosen, and in particular, its merlot contribution. In the glass, the wine has aromas of blackcurrant, red fruit and fruit cake. The latter character is a ripe merlot character more typical of the right bank, or in between. This character goes on to define the wine. The palate lacks intensity on the finish and its merlot contribution continues with red fruit characters that creep towards raisin. Overall, the 2020 vintage of the Fleur de Pédesclaux is suitable for current drinking and is a pleasant, if atypical expression of Pauillac. Rating: Good (★★★, 87 points). Website: Château Pédesclaux. Tasted: January 2024.