(mahr-GOH) Silky Smooth

Soft, elegant… these are words that help describe the mysteries of Margaux. The commune is different from its northern neighbors of the Haut-Médoc. Home to the name-sharing premier cru, Margaux lays a few marshlands south of St.-Julien. There is a distance in geography as well as in wine. The wines of Margaux have distinct characteristics that separate it from other Bordeaux.

Notable Facts

Cabernet Sauvignon leads the blends of the region, but the percentage of Merlot in Margaux's wines is higher than other left bank communes. Add that to a diverse soil, lighter than that in the north, and you have a softer, more voluptuous wine. In the best years, wines of Margaux are delicate, elegant and refined – but with firm structure as the backbone. Their price often reflects this – Chateau Margaux is of course a first growth, and Chateau Palmer, a third growth, is also well-respected and loved. Look for Cru Bourgeois if you want to try the finesse of Margaux at a lower price.