2020 Chateau Picque Caillou Rouge, Pessac-Leognan

This vineyard, now surrounded by the Bordeaux suburbs, is producing some fine classic wines. This vintage in its youth is lightly stalky, with a smoky character that comes from wood aging. Its potential is fine, softening, highlighting the black-currant flavors and tannins. Drink from 2026.

93 points Roger Voss wineenthusiast.com
 
Aromas of blackberries, dark chocolate, spice box and toasted almond. Some graphite, too. Medium- to full-bodied. Tight and concentrated with firm, chewy tannins. Structured and lingering. Needs a few years to soften. Try after 2025.

92 points jamessuckling.com

On the gravelly outskirts of Bordeaux in the heart of Pessac Léognan, Château Picque Caillou crafts reds that combine Left Bank structure with a distinctly refined, modern edge. The estate’s origins trace back to the eighteenth century, and today it is guided by Paulin Calvet with winemaking shaped by the late Denis Dubourdieu’s influence, bringing precision, balance and a clear expression of terroir. Planted mainly to Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot and supporting varieties, the well drained Günzian gravel soils allow fruit to ripen evenly while retaining aromatic lift and freshness.

A deep garnet crimson fills the glass with classic Bordeaux composure. Aromas unfold in layers of blackcurrant, dark cherry and plum intertwined with cedar, graphite, tobacco leaf and subtle dried herbs. There is a polished restraint to the bouquet, where savoury complexity and ripe fruit sit in seamless harmony.

The palate is medium to full bodied and finely structured, delivering concentrated cassis and blackberry fruit framed by firm yet refined tannins and vibrant acidity. Nuances of dark chocolate, bay leaf and gentle oak spice build through the mid palate, leading to a long, mineral tinged finish that feels both elegant and persistent. This Pessac Léognan will reward cellaring over ten to fifteen years as notes of leather, cigar box and earthy nuance gradually emerge.

A natural partner for classic, flavourful fare, it shines with roast lamb with rosemary, grilled ribeye, duck confit or mushroom and lentil dishes. Château Picque Caillou Rouge captures the understated nobility of Bordeaux’s Left Bank, perfect for candlelit dinners, autumn gatherings and moments when a quietly confident red elevates the entire table.