In the glass the 2004 Château Pontet-Canet presents an attractive hue, with a nice density for the vintage, a dark plum core and dusty matt rim. The aromatics are a delight, starting off with scents of violets and incense, before relaxing to reveal notes of crisp blackcurrant, blackberry, black liquorice, rose and lavender, along with very fine dark chocolate and touches of fragrant mint. This precedes a fresh and light-footed style at the very start of the palate, then a light and savoury texture through the middle, set upon a nicely resolved core of tannins which add a barely perceptible touch of powdery grip. Overall this is fresh, lightly floral and peppery, with a delicate finish, an easy-going charmer with aromatics that outclass the palate. The structure seems almost entirely resolved here, with just a lick of tannin remaining. Drinking now."