Young Merlot vines from the first Chateau Palmer parcel were harvested on September 22, 2014. Exceptional weather conditions allowed for perfect, natural (without botrytis) maturation. The sun remained all the way through the end of the harvest on October 14. Palmer 2014 immediately conveys the distinct biodynamic approach to this vintage with complex aromas. This Margaux Troisieme Cru Classe is spectacularly fresh and luscious. Bursting dark fruits (cassis, blackberries, and red plums) form a beautiful tension confirmed with aeration. A clear-cut, energetic attack precedes a rare elegance and fine, soft, cashmere-like tannins: a subtle ensemble for a first-class Palmer!
The 2014 Palmer builds on the promise that it showed in barrel. It is clearly a more understated and nuanced Palmer from winemaker Thomas Duroux this year, but a Margaux with exquisite delineation and precision, hints of blackberry, boysenberry and a touch of pencil box. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannin. It feels supple and lithe in the mouth. It will not have the depth and power of the subsequent 2015 Palmer, yet the flow is very sensual and the Merlot (45% of the blend) just lends it roundness and a caressing texture. What a beautiful Margaux and I bet it will be deceptively long-lived.