1973 Pichon Baron Pauillac

1973 Pichon Baron Pauillac

Chauvinism shelved
In the older days, probably around 1977 and earlier, I think Pichon Baron did not show it’s chauvinistic character much. I only recalled 1978 vintage to be superb, but has never drank anything impressive prior to 1978. I decanted the whole bottle but only for a short 15 mins coz 1973 wasn’t a great vintage and it may not benefit from too much air. The nose was really ripe with a load of red cherries, there wasn’t any signature Baron oak vanilla bouquet profile. Body was dry initially but it did open up to be fruitier and smooth after 30 mins of decanting. Rather than being powerful, it was light and airy wine with a lot of dried cherries and figs. I would think the feminine counterparty Pichon Lalande 73 was a much better choice for a 1973 Bordeaux wine.