Alter Ego de Palmer 2020

A voluptuous and aromatic Margaux wine

The estate

A Classified Growth in the Official Classification of 1855, Chateau Palmer is a real star of the Margaux appellation, on the left bank of the Bordeaux region. With biodynamic viticulture launched in 2009, Chateau Palmer has chosen to convert the entire vineyard in 2014. Having built its legacy on vintages that have become legendary, Chateau Palmer continues to write its history under the direction of the talented Thomas Duroux.

The vineyard

Upon an exceptional terroir in the immediate vicinity of the Gironde estuary, Chateau Palmer has fairly unusual grape varieties for a Medoc estate, with Merlot given pride of place, supplemented by Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot.

The wine

Since its launch with the 1998 vintage, the greatly elegant Alter Ego de Palmer is intended as another facet of the expression of Chateau Palmer wines.

The vintage

Budding began in late February, almost two weeks early. The heavy rainfall in March was followed by a wet and mild spring, causing significant mildew pressure. The teams at the estate ramped up their efforts during April and May to uphold the agricultural course. The hot and dry conditions which set in from mid-May incited ideal conditions for flowering. Summer conditions were recorded from June. Although water stress was significant during August, punctuated by scorching episodes, thunderstorms salvaged the vineyard. The dry conditions returning at the end of August were ideal in ensuring good tannin concentration and to refine ripening. Harvests began on 15 September, lasting until 29 September.

Blend

The 2020 Alter Ego de Palmer is made from a blend of Merlot (46%), Cabernet Sauvignon (50%), Petit Verdot (4%).

Tasting

Color

Full of summer sunshine, the berries impart a beautiful deep and dark color to the wine.

Nose

The nose blends, with harmony and indulgence, fragrances of soft fruits, spiced flowers and fresh, slightly minty herbs.

Palate

With a beautiful structure, this 2020 vintage seduces with a silky touch, characteristic of the signature style of Chateau Palmer. The perfect expression of its terroir and climate, the 2020 Alter Ego de Palmer echoes the 2018 vintage with its structure, which combines solar Merlot with fine and powerful Cabernet.