Pavillon Rouge du Château Margaux is more than just a second wine—it is a brilliant and refined expression of the estate’s legendary terroir, offering a glimpse into the grace and complexity of Château Margaux at a more accessible stage. While crafted for earlier enjoyment, it still retains the floral elegance, silky texture, and impeccable balance that define the Grand Vin, making it one of the most sought-after second wines in Bordeaux.
The blend is Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant, typically making up 65-75% of the composition, with Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc playing supporting roles. The fruit for Pavillon Rouge comes from parcels within the estate’s vineyard that, while exceptional, do not quite meet the strict selection for Château Margaux. However, these plots still benefit from the estate’s gravelly soils and meticulous vineyard management, ensuring the wine maintains the hallmarks of Margaux’s legendary finesse.
On the nose, Pavillon Rouge is beautifully aromatic, exuding classic Margaux perfume—notes of violets, red roses, and fresh blackcurrant mingle with hints of cedar, graphite, and sweet spice. There is an immediate charm to its bouquet, more expressive in its youth than the Grand Vin, yet still layered with refinement and depth.
The palate is silky and polished, with soft yet structured tannins that provide balance and depth. Ripe red and black fruits, such as cherry, raspberry, and cassis, are complemented by touches of vanilla, toasted oak, and a hint of earthiness. The mid-palate is supple, with a freshness that enhances its approachability while still hinting at its ability to age gracefully for 15-20 years. The finish is long and refined, echoing the floral, fruit, and mineral notes that make Pavillon Rouge unmistakably Margaux.
While it does not possess the sheer concentration and longevity of Château Margaux, Pavillon Rouge is far from a simple second wine. It is an extraordinarily elegant and sophisticated Pauillac in its own right, often surpassing many classified growths in quality. For those seeking the ethereal beauty of Margaux with a more approachable profile, Pavillon Rouge du Château Margaux offers an exceptional opportunity to experience First Growth pedigree with immediate charm and finesse.