There is no more famous, iconic or identifiable Chateau in all Bordeaux than that of Chateau Margaux. Sitting discreetly just to the Gironde-side of the commune of Margaux, nearly invisible to passing traffic, the beauty and magnificence of the Chateau is literally breath-taking as you approach. With 78 hectares under vine, including 66 hectares to red varieties (75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 5% split between Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot) and some 12 hectares planted to white – entirely Sauvignon Blanc – total production is around 30,000 dozen bottles per year – impressive even by Bordeaux standards. Unlike many Bordeaux properties, the landholdings and vineyard locations have barely changed during the past two centuries, with more than 90% of all landholdings remaining identical to those of the late 18th century.
100 Points Wine Advocate
The 1996 Chateau Margaux, a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc, must be a strong contender for wine of the vintage. It offers everything you desire from this First Growth. It is blessed with breathtaking delineation and freshness on the nose, understated at first and then blossoming with mineral-infused black fruit, hints of blueberry, crushed stone and violet. The palate is perfectly balanced with filigree tannin, perfect acidity, a wine where everything seems to be in its right place. Blackberry, crushed stone at the front of the mouth, just a touch of spice towards the finish that shows supreme control. This is a Margaux that seems to light up the senses. It was outstanding in its youth…something that has not changed one bit over the intervening two decades. This may well turn out to be the Left Bank pinnacle of the 1990s. Drink 2016-2050.
100 Points Jane Anson
Tasted at Berry Bros 1996 ’25 years on’ supper in November, and also at the estate in June, this is unquestionably one of the finest 1996s that you can open right now. Softly spoken, finely-spun tannins that are still in control, setting off the white truffle, cured leather and smoked earth notes. This inches forward through the palate, slowly unwinding its raspberry and wild strawberry fruits, along with penoy and dried rose aroamtics. A stunning wine that is still giving so much pleasure. The team at the estate always say this is particularly special to them also – it was a late harves after a burst of rain at the end of September when many of their neighbours began to pick. They decided to wait, and were rewarded with beautifully ripe Cabernet that was tannic and a little surly at first, but that now proves the wisdom of holding your nerve. 100% new oak.