The 2016 Pavillon Rouge du Chateau Margaux contains the highest proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon ever at 84%, with 13% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot, representing 26% of the total harvest. Matured in 50-60% new oak, it has a very pure redcurrant and cranberry scented bouquet with a touch of graphite. The palate is medium-bodied with quite firm tannin on the entry, thanks to the high percentage of Cabernet, and it is saline in the mouth with a pinch of white pepper towards the finish. It will need three or four years in bottle. 91-93 points

This is beautifully fragrant, with the highest ever level of Cabernet Sauvignon in the Pavillon because the Merlots were not quite up to their usual high standard, and two plots that usually go into the grand vin were put into this instead. This has a taut structure, with black cherry and cassis from a blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot. Clear, precise, complex black fruits and charcoal edging provide finesse to this very pr etty and successful wine, although it will struggle to live up to the legendary 2015. The reds at Margaux finished up on 18th October after a full month of picking, one of the longest on record. The berries were smaller in size than last year, but there were more of them per vine, hence the higher yield that still achieves great concentration. Pavillon this year was 26% of the overall harvest, compared to 23% last year. 70IPT. 92 points