Margaux 1999

The sexy, dark plum/purple-colored 1999 Margaux is already revealing complex aromatics. This surprisingly charming and round offering is reminiscent of a vintage such as 1985. Although neither a blockbuster nor a heavyweight, it grows in the mouth revealing tremendous length as well as purity. Administrator Paul Pontallier prefers it to the more austere 1998, as do I. This is an archetypical Chateau Margaux of richness, finesse, balance, and symmetry. It can be drunk young, but promises to age nicely for two decades. Extrapolating backwards, it would probably have something in common with the underrated 1962 Medocs.

Approximately 38% of the production made it into the 1999 Chateau Margaux. A dense ruby/purple-colored offering, it possesses extraordinary balance as well as a classic, disarming bouquet of blackberries, truffles, licorice, and smoke. A quintessential Margaux, this seductive, sexy yet beautifully balanced effort displays impeccably integrated acidity, tannin, and alcohol. It will be atypically delicious young, yet will age for 2-3 decades. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2025.

The wine reveals the vintage's flamboyant side in its sweet, blackberry, and cassis-scented nose. With airing, spicy vanillin and toast notes also emerge. Soft and full-bodied, there is admirable density behind the wine's superficial display of charm. The vintage's high sugars have resulted in nearly 13% alcohol. This offering will be drinkable young, yet last for 20+ years.

A tight and silky red, with lots to offer?currant, tobacco and cherry character, medium to full body, fine tannins and a long, long finish. Just needs time. Best after 2006.

Scented, biscuit, sweet nose. Exciting. Real energy here. There's a hint of milk chocolate and slightly dry tannins but it would make a good bottle to drink now. Drink 2007-2030. Date tasted 25th June 09.

Very attractive ripeness and surprisingly soft with a cherry edge. The palate is supple and ripe; the finish is velvety and long. Certainly it is the lightest of the First Growth this year. The charming Paul Pontallier (who could sell ice to Eskimos) describes it as being "An iron fist in a velvet glove" and finds it similar to the 1985, but better. We found that it lacks stuffing but he assures us that it will put on weight and become a great Margaux. Time will tell.