Without doubt an incredible Margaux, although whether it will equal the 2015 remains to be seen. It`s less serious than the 2016 but every bit as good, floating above the palate, performing that acrobatic trick that only happens in the really great years. It`s silky yet intense and powerful, with sweet, fleshy and succulent raspberry cut through with fresh rosemary and sage that add texture and grip. The menthol side of the Cabernet is already coming through, which suggests the fruit was just perfectly ripe - these are aromatics that you don`t get in true heatwave years like 2003. The flavours stretch out, gently gripping and keeping you involved in what is unfurling.

Chateau Margaux`s 2018 Grand Vin boasts off the charts textural richness and intensity from the very first taste. A huge core of dark fruit, potent, muscular tannins are two of the signatures. Dense and explosive in the glass, with breathtaking concentration, the 2018 is one of the finest Margauxs in recent memory. Lavender, rose petal and spice add striking perfume in this compelling, memorable Grand Vin. In 2018, the Grand Vin represents 36% of the crop and is 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. 95-98 points