Chateau Pontet-Canet's roots date back to the early 18th century when Jean-Francois de Pontet, merged several vineyard plots into one. Years later, the estate was renamed when his descendants added vines from Canet to the holdings. Located in the Pauillac AOC of Bordeaux's left bank, Chateau Pontet-Canet is ranked as a Fifth Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. Guy Tesseron acquired in the estate in 1975 and today, his son Alfred and granddaughter Melanie manage the operations. Of the 80 hectares under vine, the average age is 40-45 years and all are certified organic and biodynamic. The soils, based on gravel, are lean and well drained, the best fit for Cabernet Sauvignon vines. Of the hectares planted, approximately 60% is to Cabernet, Merlot plantings equal 33% and the remaining land is home to Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. As a biodynamic producer, the Tesserons take their vineyards very seriously, intervening as little as possible in nurturing the fruit. Chemicals are banned and all the vines are hand-pruned to allow for optimal ventilation and sun exposure. In the winery, the fruit is treated to a gentle gravity-fed winemaking system.
