Chateau Petrus

Chateau Petrus is the most celebrated wine of Pomerol, and in fact the world. It has been said that everything about Chateau Petrus is small-scale, except for its wine and its reputation. The chateau itself is of modest proportions. In fact, it is little more than a reception room, a hallway, one or two little rooms above, and the cellars. The name is taken from St Peter who is depicted on the label holding the keys to the property.

Chateau Petrus's standing first became clear when it won a gold medal at the Paris Exhibition of 1878, the first wine from Pomerol to gain this distinction, and in an era when such awards really carried weight. But its modern reputation is due to Madame Loubat who steadily built up the quality of the wine with meticulous husbandry and impeccable vinification. Like a great cook, she ensured that attention was paid to every detail. The vineyard was tended with the care of a garden, the cuvier and chais were so immaculate that it seemed impossible that any work was ever carried on there. Chateau Petrus also owes a great deal to Jean-Pierre Moueix who ensured that it was distributed in such a way that it would acquire the international reputation it deserved. Monsieur Moueix is not only a very successful negociant, he is also a great connoisseur of many things that make life noble.

After the death of Madame Loubat, her niece, Madame Lacoste-Loubat, carried on the running of the property in partnership with Jean-Pierre Mouiex, who has since become the controlling partner.

The wine of Chateau Petrus is completely distinctive and different from those of surrounding properties. It has an unctuous, almost chewy quality of richness and power in common with them, but an exceptional depth of colour and a much clearer definition of flavour and bouquet.

1988 was an excellent vintage. The wine is a dark ruby purple colour, good sold but ripe tannins provide the backbone, and intense concentration of fruit will ensure the wines longevity well into this century.

"Pork barrel" came into use as a political term in the post-Civil War era. It comes from the plantation practice of distributing rations of salt pork to slaves from wooden barrels. When used to describe a bill, it implies the legislation is loaded with special projects for Members of Congress to distribute to their constituents back home as an act of largesse, courtesy of the federal taxpayer.

        World War II Poster

(Photo: REUTERS/Pier Paolo Cito/Pool) ____________________________________________________________________________________