This expands sideways, vertically and downwards, with a creamy mid palate and a rose petal, peony, raspberry and cassis collision on the nose. This is chewy in its tannic structure, full on and yet delicate and sappy. Fresh, elegant, perfumed and concentrated - clearly will age for decades. This is close in character to the 2009 or 2015, two exceptional vintages at Margaux and classic to the graceful yet concentrated signature of the property. 1% Petit Verdot to complete the blend, 100% new oak although barely discernible already. 37% of overall production in the 1st wine this year. 98 points

The 2019 Chateau Margaux is a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, accounting for 37% of the crop. The alcohol came in at 13.9%, the IPT was 75, and the pH was 3.66. Deep garnet-purple in color, the nose begins with intense scents of crushed blackberries, warm cassis and plum preserves before fanning out into a whole array of floral, exotic spice and earth scents: iris, red roses, star anise, cassis, tilled soil, moss-covered bark and black truffles, with an emerging waft of crushed rocks. The medium-bodied palate quivers with energy, emitting loads of mineral sparks, featuring bold freshness and fantastically ripe, finely grained tannins to support the delicate, perfumed layers, finishing very long and wonderfully poised. The juxtaposition between the acidity and the richness in this Château Margaux is just extraordinary! 97-100 points

The 2019 Chateau Margaux, like many other top names, was tasted in 12-hour intervals after opening. Like the Pavillon Rouge, it is tightly-wound on the nose initially and it is really only after 12-hours that it begins to motor, revealing enticing scents of blackberry, briary, seaweed and crushed stone, perhaps less florality, less violet-inspired aromas compared to previous vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with very lithe tannins that disguise the con siderable backbone of this First Growth. This is imbued with a sense of linearity and focus, a strictness that gradually gives way to more sensuality. It is a beautifully proportioned Château Margaux, somehow "effortless", fanning out nonchalantly with residues of white pepper and fresh tobacco on the finish. Outstanding. 96-98 points

Deep colour to the rim. Super fragrance, the aromas pure and persistent with typical Cabernet cassis and graphite notes. Rich and full across the palate but definitely more freshness than the Pavillon. Plentiful tannins provide the drive but absolutely no aggression. Aromatic freshness on the finish aids persistence and length. 18.5 points