2012 Pavillon Rouge du Ch Margaux (Margaux)

Composed of 30% of the production, the 2012 Pavillon Rouge du Chateau Margaux is a blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Fragrant, flowery, red and black fruit notes intermixed with notions of dusty, loamy soil are found in this medium-bodied, silky, enormously charming 2012. Enjoy it over the next 10-15 years. 87-89 points

A blend of 33% Merlot, 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc, the Pavillon Rouge takes time to settle down in the glass. Small dark cherries, a touch of blueberry and iodine that unfold with time. The palate is medium-bodied with firm, ripe, quite solid tannins. There is a higher density here than I expected. There is a good weight here, perhaps less expressive than previous vintages at this point with a grippy, quite powerful finish. 90-92 points

Deep garnet hue; vibrant, fragrant nose of fruit; lush generous palate offering elegant tactile sensations and a substantial b ody reflecting the compelling smoothness of the vintage. Beautiful tasty length laced with delicate fat and fine-grained tannins. Delicious and very much Pavillon Rouge. 90 points

With the introduction of a third wine at Château Margaux, what’s included in the second wine has arguably gone up a notch in quality. This is certainly a very polished Margaux, with attractive plum and green pepper flavours, silky tannins, fresh acidity and a supple, chocolatey finish. Drink. 2020-28. 93 points