Château Margaux, 1er Cru Classé, Margaux, Third Tranche, 2015

Tasting Note:

We were saddened to hear of the death of Paul Pontallier just before the primeur tastings. He worked tirelessly for over thirty years for Chateau Margaux, to promote and improve the wines. Although his death was untimely, 2015 will be remembered fondly by those who knew him as his last vintage. It is a vintage that is befitting of the great man; a vintage of depth, classicism, class and refinement. The Grand Vin accounts for just 35% of the crop and is produced from a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. We had high expectations having just tasted a seriously impressive Pavillon Rouge – and we were not disappointed, far from it. Chateau Margaux has produced one of the most hauntingly beautiful wines we can ever recall tasting from this noble terroir. It is classically understated yet ripples with power and a sense of nobility. Initially the perfumed bouquet of potpourri, roses, damsons, bilberry and griotte delights the nose. Then a silken swathe of aromatic dark fruit, crème de cassis and lacy flecks of bright crimson fruit captivated the palate. This is so detailed and effortless; the fruit is uplifting, refined and ever so charming. The tannins are discrete but ever-present, coated with beautiful red berry fruits. This mesmerising, nuanced wine goes on and on delighting the palate with new flavours and regal, effortless tannins. Simply Superb!