Pavillon Rouge du Chateau Margaux [Future Arrival] 2023

WA92-94: Somewhat reminiscent of a cooler-fruited version of the lovely 2019, Château Margaux's 2023 Pavillon Rouge wafts from the glass with aromas of cassis, raspberries, licorice and pipe tobacco, deftly framed by creamy new oak. Medium to full-bodied, ample and fleshy, with a sweet core of fruit, ripe tannins and a lively, succulent profile, it's a blend 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc that attained 13.3% alcohol.

JD91-93+: The second wine of the château is the 2023 Château Margaux Pavillon, which is based on 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Representing 30% of the production, it's a beautiful second wine offering classic cassis and raspberry-like fruit as well as graphite, freshly sharpened pencils, and spicy nuances. More red fruit-driven, medium to full-bodied, and ripe, with chalky, velvety tannins, it's well worth seeking out and will drink well for two decades.