Pavillon Rouge by Chateau Margaux, 2010, Margaux

It is the first time that the Pavillon Rouge, which made up 38% of the crop, accounts for the same proportion as the first wine. This selection reflects the even higher standards we have set for Pavillon Rouge. It is indeed no longer a second wine but rather a different blend of the first one, with truly comparable tannic power.
66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot: while these are practically the same proportions as in 2009, the quality is quite possibly superior. Never before has Pavillon Rouge come so close to Château Margaux. Ideally, this should be aged for few more years before enjoying.

While the 2010 weather conditions were reminiscent of 2009 and 2005, vintages are never completely alike. The summer of 2010 was as dry as 2009, yet cooler. The absence of extreme heat combined with cool nights compensated for the drought and probably allowed some of the great terroirs’ young plants to reach a new quality threshold. It also favoured the aromatic character in all grape varieties, particularly in Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet and enabled the maintenance of excellent acidity levels – the perfect foil for high levels of alcohol.

94/100 Robert Parker

94/100 Wine Spectator

96/100 James Suckling

94/100 Wine Enthusiast