Margaux 2001

Performing well from bottle, Chateau Margaux’s 2001, which is somewhat reminiscent of both the 1985 and 1999, is an elegant, seamlessly constructed effort with a deep ruby/purple color, and a beautiful nose of flowers, creme de cassis, blackberries, and cedar. A blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot, and 4% Cabernet Franc, this forward, opulent beauty can be drunk now or cellared for 15-20 years. This is one of the most elegant wines of the vintage.

A Cabernet Sauvignon-based offering (82%Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 7% Petit verdot, 4%Cabernet Franc), the 2001 Margaux is the result of a severe selection (35% of the crop made it into the grand vin)A deep ruby colour is followed by aromas of sweet cassis fruit intermixed with licorice and subtle toasty oak.Elegant concentration and tannin. With beautiful balance as well as low acidity, it will be drinkable young.Anticipated maturity:2005-2018

Mid crimson. Lots of shading at the rim. Luscious and meaty on the nose. Pretty dry but vigorous, brisk tannins. Thick and dense and contained – promises well for the future. Latour? Packed full of energy.

Certainly the least dense of the First Growths this year. Paul Pontallier says it is a classic wine and indeed it exhibits many of the best characteristics of the appellation. A charming, supple wine, it is a mellow version of the 1988 and will be a wonderful drink relatively early on. Selection has resulted in only 38% of the crop making it into the first wine (the lowest level ever). 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7.3% Merlot, 7.4% Petit Verdot.

“Very fine indeed. Textbook Chateau Margaux.” WS