Pavillon Rouge 2021

The freshness and finesse of a Margaux second wine

The estate

With origins dating back to the 12th century, Château Margaux is one of the world’s most legendary estate and one of the most prestigious Classified Growths of Bordeaux. In 1855, the château was awarded the title of First Classified Growth and was one of only four estates to obtain a rating of twenty out of twenty. With the acquisition of the property by André Mentzelopoulos in 1977, Château Margaux is today writing a new page in its history. Having elevated the Grand Vin of Château Margaux to the highest level of quality, Mentzelopoulos also reintroduced the château’s Second Wine, the Pavillon Rouge of Château Margaux, first produced in 1908. Following in the footsteps of her late father, Corinne Mentzelopoulos took over the family estate and, with her energy and passion, elevated the Château Margaux estate to that of a Bordeaux masterpiece, recognised by wine lovers around the world by its neo-Palladian allure. Vintage after vintage, the estate's wines are among the greatest in the world.

The vineyard

The Château Margaux vineyard owes its unique character to its rare terroir, situated upon an outcropping of gravel. The vineyard of the property gives pride of place to the area's flagship red grape, Cabernet Sauvignon, which is complemented by Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. The clay-limestone soils of the estate produce legendary wines with a distinguished and sensual allure, so representative of fine Margaux wines.

The vintage

Although the first two months of the year were mild and rainy, a dry and clement month of March favoured the early budding of the vines. Spring began with severe frosts. Although almost one hectare of white grapes was affected, despite the sprinkler systems, the red grapes were barely impacted. Subsequently, the high humidity in May and June led to strong mildew pressure, which was contained thanks to the efforts of the teams. Although flowering took place in average conditions, the fruit set was excellent. A wet month of July gave way to a particularly dry August and early September. The strong sunshine at the end of September was ideal for refining the ripeness of the grapes until the harvest.

The wine

This Second Red Wine of Château Margaux represents 30% of the harvest for this 2021 vintage.

The blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (73%)

Merlot (18%)

Petit Verdot (5%)

Cabernet Franc (4%).

Pavillon Rouge 2021 by Château Margaux: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Nose

The nose reveals intense floral fragrances, a characteristic of a relatively fresh vintage.

Palate

The palate is seduced by this wine’s very fine tannins and its silky feel.