Chateau Margaux Pavillon Rouge (Futures Pre-sale) 2011

"Combines both silky texture and good tension, with a light chalky thread running through the middle of the almost plush plum and blackberry fruit. There's a bright cassis bush edge as well (telltale of the Petit Verdot component), and overall there's a very suave feel through the finish, with a lingering jasmine edge. Tasted non-blind.
Barrel Sample: 90-93 Points"

93 Points

Wine Spectator

"The 2011 Pavillon Rouge du Chateau Margaux is one of the finest examples of this cuvee I have ever tasted. It hit 13% natural alcohol and represents only 28% of the harvest. This blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc reveals more structure than most vintages in addition to lots of dark berry fruit intermixed with hints of wood smoke, forest floor and spring flowers. Very pure with striking minerality as well as a long finish, it should drink well for two decades or more.
Barrel Sample: 91-93"

93 Points

The Wine Advocate

"Barrel sample. Very floral, this soft wine has smooth fruits and black-currant acidity; it represents Margaux’s elegant side.
Barrel Sample: 91-93 Points"

93 Points

Wine Enthusiast

"Deep purple. Sexy nose of redcurrant, fresh herbs and vanilla. Lively on entry, then soft and ripe, with multilayered red fruit, herb and cocoa flavors. The pure, long finish is ripely tannic. Paul Pontallier told me that the estate is paying more attention to Pavillon Rouge, as it has become such an important and sought-after wine that Margaux cannot really afford to have it be anything less than excellent.
Barrel Sample: 88-91 Points"

91 Points

International Wine Cellar

"The second wine of first growth Margaux shows some strength with muscular tannins and pretty fruit with hints of flowers and minerals. Slightly hollow in the mid-palate but very pretty.
Barrel Sample: 89-90 Points"

90 Points

James Suckling