WINE REVIEWS
2019 Chateau Kirwan
Chateau Kirwan takes the name from the Irishman, Mark Kirwan, who owned the estate in the mid 18th century. The Schyler family has owned Kirwan since 1925. Chateau Kirwan is located on the plateau of Cantenac with some of the finest gravelly soil in the Medoc. Kirwan produces wines that remain elegant, well structured and are among the most stylish in the Margaux appellation.
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This prototypical Margaux is intensely aromatic with spring flowers and fruitcake spices. Sleek and concentrated on the palate with crème de cassis and juicy raspberry preserves that remain beautifully creamy well into the core. There is nice tension and energy throughout. It is obvious that Chateau Kirwan excelled in Margaux with this vintage. An exemplary effort by Sophie Schyler, managing director Philippe Default and the team at Chateau Kirwan.
2019 Chateau Giscours
Chateau Giscours has a long, rich history that dates back to the 14th century. Located within the Margaux appellation, in the communes of Labarde and Arsac, Giscour's exceptional terroir presents all the qualities required to produce a great wine. The soil components are ideal. Three magnificent gravel hilltops deposited by the Garonne at the beginning of the Quaternary era are one of the key features. The gentle climate is another beneficial factor. This subtle balance gives the terroir its undeniable finesse.
A composition of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Merlot, this opaque wine reveals a wealth of dark blue fruits. The nose opens with black cherry, cassis, violets, and blueberry with a slight hint of tar and graphite. The mid-palette has great depth. Tannins are restrained, giving the wine amazing balance and a solid structure.The delicate acidity within this impressive beauty offers a finish that is long and elegant.
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By Perry Miroballi
2019 Chateau
Prieure-Lichine
The original parcel of this property had been segmented into separate portions during the French Revolution. Noted author and visionary Alexis Lichine purchased the chateau in 1951 along with some surrounding vineyards in Margaux. His son Sacha carried on after his father's passing. It was then sold to the negociant Ballande group where it has undergone a modernization and replanting of the vineyards.
This opaque Margaux reveals delicate aromas of wild flowers and rose petals, yet it still remains a bit shy. The core is vibrant and deep, filled with red plum preserves and juicy Morello cherries that emerge from the glass and invite you inside. The tannins are finely grained and polished. It is an intellectual and complex Margaux that reveals itself over time. It would be wise to hedge your bet on the wines from the Margaux
appellation and those from this estate.
2019 Chateau Suduiraut
The chateau acquired its name in 1580 with the marriage of Nicole d'Allard to Léonard de Suduiraut. It received a Premier Cru Classe´ designation during the 1855 classification. The vineyards are adjacent to those of Chateau d'Yquem. In 1992 it was acquired by AXA Millésimes. The property has been under the guidance of their managing director, Christian Seely.
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With 94% Semillion and 6% Sauvignon Blanc this pale yellow Suduiraut allures you with racy tropical fruits that are complimented with botrytis and freshness. The long sumptuous entry of apricot blossoms and orange marmalade are layered with pastry cream. It is fresh and vibrant with a vein of minerality at the end. This Suduiraut shows opulence and restraint at the same time.
It will age gracefully.
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2019 Chateau Du Tertre
Chateau du Tertre is a thousand-year-old estate whose vineyard, spanning over 128 acres, remains unchanged since 1855. During the 19th century, Chateau du Tertre wines rose to worldwide fame, thanks to the 1855 classification which established the Chateau as a Grand Cru Classe.
The blend is 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc and 6% Petit Verdot. Beneath the heady aromas of violets and rose petals is a wealth of dark fruits with blueberries and blackberries. This Margaux beauty opens with cassis, crushed flowers, leather, spice and a lush fruit creaminess. The tannins are soave and polished. The finish is amazing long and memorable. This is among the finest efforts that I have tasted from this estate.
By Perry Miroballi
2019 Chateau La Pointe
Chateau La Pointe is positioned on a triangular plot of land in Pomerol with subsoils of clay, gravel and sand. In 2007, after its purchase, the estate was revitalized by general manager Eric Monneret, achieving a recognized status in this appellation.
Pomerol has been one of the success stories of the 2019 vintage and Chateau La Pointe is in the top tier. With 74% Merlot and 26% Cabernet the bright ruby color reveals notes of red raspberry coulis, pomegranate and baked strawberries that coat your palate. The tannins are plump and silky reminding you of a cashmere scarf. It speaks to you in a sexy and sensuous tone reminding you of a heavenly encounter.