The vineyard of Château Margaux stands as the producer of one of the World's greatest and most sought-after red wines. One of only four wines to achieve First Growth status in the oft-cited 1855 Bordeaux Classification, its very expensive vintages command a consistently high premium and are stored and traded over periods of many decades. According to Forbes.com, a bottle of Chateau Margaux 1787 holds the record as the most expensive bottle of wine ever broken, insured at $225,000. The château is located within the commune of Margaux in the Haut-Médoc in the 15th century fortified castle called Lamoth. Grapes have been cultivated on the property since the 16th century. Château Margaux has been well regarded in history and stands among Thomas Jefferson's favorite châteaux.
Margaux is often considered the most "feminine" of the First Growths. It is sensuous with fine tannins that give it a sense of clarity. The wine has dark berry aromas such as boysenberry or blackberries. The bouquet is characterized by ripe black currants, spicy vanilla and violets. A strong minerality is often found in the lengthy finish.
The vineyards are primarily Cabernet Sauvignon (75%), with the balance composed of Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. In addition to the château's grand vin, the estate produces a second label called Pavillon Rouge de Château Margaux and Pavillon Blanc de Château Margaux, a white made from Sauvignon Blanc. Château Margaux's finest vintages include 1900, 1953, 1961, 1982, 1989, 1990, 2000, and 2005.
Appellation: Margaux
Areas under Vine: 90 hectares
Average Annual Production: 12,000 cases per annum
Soil: Sandy-stone topsoil, beneath which is to be found gravel and then clay
Grape Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon (75%), Merlot (20%), Cabernet Franc (2%) and Petit Verdot (3%)
Ageing: The wine is placed in new oak barrels for 18 months
Top Vintages: 1928, 1953, 1990, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2003, 2005 |
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