Pauillac or Margaux?

While Pauillac wines generally stand out very favorably with each vintage, the best vintages always come from years in which climatic conditions were marked by hot, dry summers and a fine after-season. Thus, the following vintages are generally considered to be the best vintages in Pauillac: 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2006, 2005... to name but a few!

Pauillac wines are mainly made from Cabernet Sauvignon, the appellation's king grape variety, which gives the wines their structure and complexity. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot can also be used to complement the appellation's grape varieties. The latter bring more aromatic nuances and a certain roundness to the final wine.

After being harvested from grapes that must have reached optimum ripeness, Pauillac wines are vinified in the traditional way and then matured in oak barrels of varying lengths, depending on the style of the estate. In the glass, Pauillac wines are characterised by their power and fine, tightly woven tannins. They generally reveal aromas of blackcurrant, cedar, tobacco and spices. Their ageing capacity is exceptional, with a potential of 15 to 25 years, or even more for certain Grands Crus. Over time, the tannins soften and the aromas of leather, truffle and undergrowth unfold. They have the formidable ability to gain in finesse and delicacy while retaining their distinctive power.

Pauillac red wines are the perfect match for the unmissable leg of lamb, but they also go perfectly with grilled red meats, game in sauce and mature cheeses. For those who love bold food and wine pairings, Pauillac wines are also a brilliant accompaniment to dark chocolate.

Situated to the south of Pauillac, the Margaux appellation is renowned for the finesse and elegance of its wines. Covering some 1,500 hectares, Margaux boasts several Grands Crus Classés, including the famous Château Margaux. Margaux wines are distinguished by their complex aromatic bouquet and silky texture.

The Margaux vineyards are home to 21 Grands Crus Classés, including the prestigious estates of Château Margaux, Premier Grand Cru Classé, as well as Seconds Crus such as Château Brane-Cantenac and Château Rauzan-Ségla, Third Crus such as Château Palmer, and finally Fourth and Fifth Crus such as Château Marquis de Terme and Château Dauzac.

An important subtlety in this match is that the Margaux terroir is made up more of fine gravel than the other Médoc appellations downstream. This light, well-drained soil, which rests on a limestone and clay subsoil, favours the production of fine, elegant wines. The climate is similar to that of Pauillac, with a temperate influence from the Gironde estuary. Margaux enjoys generous sunshine, moderate temperatures and humidity regulated by sea breezes, creating ideal conditions for viticulture.

As with Pauillac, the best vintages of Margaux come from years when the summers were hot and dry, followed by a fine autumn. Exceptional vintages in Margaux include 2020, 2019, 2018, 2016, 2015, 2010, 2009, 2005, 2000...

As in Pauillac, Cabernet Sauvignon is the dominant grape variety in Margaux. However, among the other grape varieties, Merlot plays a more important role than in Pauillac, which explains why Margaux wines are often considered softer than those from Pauillac or other appellations north of the estuary such as Saint-Julien or Saint-Estèphe.

As with the wines of Pauillac, the wines of Margaux undergo traditional vinification and barrel ageing. In the glass, Margaux wines are characterised by their finesse, elegance and aromatic bouquet. On the palate, they offer notes of red fruit, violet, vanilla and undergrowth. As they age, they develop notes of truffle, leather and sweet spices. Margaux wines have a remarkable ageing potential of 10 to 20 years, or even longer for certain Grands Crus.

Margaux red wines are the perfect accompaniment to refined dishes such as roast duck, filet mignon, mushrooms and soft cheeses. Their elegance and aromatic complexity also go well with poultry dishes, white meats in sauce and red fruit desserts.

If you're looking to discover the wines of the Médoc without breaking the bank, second wines are an excellent option. If you're unfamiliar with the concept, you should know that second wines have their origins in the prestigious Bordeaux estates which, for various reasons, chose to leave out certain batches when blending their ‘fine wine’. Far from being a compromise on quality, this approach aimed to make the most of the entire harvest while maintaining the excellence and prestige of the first wine. Nowadays, any Bordeaux estate can produce a second wine, which appeals to consumers looking for excellent value for money. Second wines also have the advantage of being available earlier than their illustrious elders, while sharing the same essence and know-how.