Pétrus
About Pétrus
Pétrus is one of the world’s most collectable wines. We would argue that it is Bordeaux’s most prestigious wine. The vineyard of Pétrus covers just 11.4 hectares (28 acres) and is situated on the plateau on the eastern side of Pomerol on Bordeaux’s Right Bank. The vineyard sits at the top of a 20-hectare (49-acre) hillock (called the Pétrus boutonnière). It has topsoil and subsoil high in iron-rich clay – distinctly different from surrounding vineyards. This terroir gives Pétrus a unique power and aging potential.
The uniqueness of Pétrus is also partially the result of its very old vines (average age exceeding 45 years). Pétrus was also one of the first in Bordeaux to implement green-harvesting (éclaircissage) to lower yields and increase the concentration and power of the wine. Grapes are hand-harvested over two to three days, although the vineyard's small size permits harvesting to be completed in one day if necessary. This means that all grapes are picked at the optimal time. A stringent pre-assemblage vat selection is carried out and certain parcels are rejected as not worthy of the Grand Vin. The young wine is aged in 50% new French oak barrels for 12 to 16 months. An average year might yield at most 30,000 bottles.
Pétrus is a collectors’ and critics’ darling, feted by all who have the money or access to be able to sample this most powerful and unique wine. Robert Parker has awarded Pétrus no less than 8 perfect 100-point scores!
