Pavillon Rouge du Château Margaux, Margaux, 2022

This is 32% of the crop here, and dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon at 64% of the blend. with 24% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. No change in the élevage here, Philippe Bascaules having initially considered a later bottling but found after the last fining the wine was ready for the bottle. He thinks this represents the ripeness of the tannins. The élevage was in 50% to 60% new oak. This has a super confident nose for Pavillon Rouge, rich in blackcurrant fruit, raspberry, concentrated, even a little blueberry showing here, with touches of soot and tar. Despite this the palate feels polished, silky, soft and charming, with a forward presence of dark and modestly plush fruit, with a light and ripe tannic backbone, which sits comfortably enshrouded by the fruit, another sign of the ripeness of the tannins, ending with a peppery length. It has real panache, with a sense of mineral freshness. Such fine maturity – a great Pavillon Rouge here – so fine and ripe you could drink this very soon. But you shouldn’t of course, because with cellar time this will be great. The alcohol on the label is 14.5%.

DRINKING WINDOW 2027 - 2049

date of review 06/2025

Fragrant and finessed aromatics on this Pavillon Rouge, that cut through the well-embedded tannins and powerful spice. This has closed down since En Primeur, with a muscular frame and dark fruits, suggesting it has a long way to run. 60% new oak, 25hl/h yield, director Philippe Bascaules.

DRINKING WINDOW 2028 - 2040

date of review 03/2025

The 2022 Pavillon Rouge was bottled in June 2023. This has a delectable bouquet with pure and delineated red plum, raspberry, wilted rose petal and inkwell scents. The palate is medium-bodied and very harmonious, with fine-grain tannin and a keen line of acidity. It's not deep or powerful, but there is tension throughout.

DRINKING WINDOW 2026 - 2048

date of review 02/2025