Pavillon Rouge 2009

The concentration and delicacy of a Margaux Second Wine

The estate

With origins dating back to the 12th century, Château Margaux is one of those Grands Crus that have built the legend of the great wines of Bordeaux around the world. In 1855, the château achieved the rank of Premier Grand Cru Classé and was the only one among the four châteaux presented to receive a perfect twenty out of twenty. With the acquisition of the estate by André Mentzelopoulos in 1977, Château Margaux began a new chapter in its history. Elevating the Grand Vin of Château Margaux to the highest level, he reintroduced the estate’s Second Wine, Pavillon Rouge du Château Margaux, first launched in 1908. Following in her father’s footsteps after his premature passing, Corinne Mentzelopoulos took up the family banner with energy and passion to preserve the standing of Château Margaux, which had become a Bordeaux masterpiece, instantly recognizable by its neo-Palladian style. Vintage after vintage, the estate’s wines rank among the greatest in the world.

The vineyard

The vineyard of Château Margaux owes its uniqueness to its rare and singular terroir, located on a gravel mound. The estate’s varietal makeup gives pride of place to the region’s flagship red grape, Cabernet Sauvignon, without forgetting Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc. The clay-limestone soils of the estate give rise to legendary wines with a racy, sensual character, so representative of the Margaux appellation. This vintage comprises 41% of the harvest.

The vintage

The 2009 vintage was shaped by a contrasting climate, marked by a cool spring followed by an exceptionally dry summer, comparable to 2005. The absence of rain from July favored the great terroirs and Cabernet Sauvignon, while certain vines on light soils struggled more to reach perfect ripeness. The alternation of hot days and cool nights allowed for a fine concentration of tannins and anthocyanins while preserving aromatic freshness. All the elements came together to make 2009 a truly great vintage.

Blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (67%), Merlot (29%), Petit Verdot (4%).

Characteristics and tasting advice for Pavillon Rouge 2009

Tasting

Pavillon Rouge 2009 combines classicism with exceptional tannic power—surpassing even 2005—while maintaining remarkable balance thanks to unprecedented softness and delicacy. The high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon allows for a moderate alcohol level (13.4) and enhances its elegance. Already charming and delicious, this wine has immense aging potential.