Pavillon Rouge 2000

Glorious aromas of freshly picked raspberries, with tiny hints of cream and minerals. Full-bodied, with superfine tannins and a long, long finish of berries and cherries. Super second wine from Margaux. Best Pavillon Rouge I have ever tasted. Best after 2010. 20,525 cases made.

Classical vintage with a so-so summer but beautiful September. Very dark crimson – looks much bluer than the 1996. Still bluer than the 2004. Savoury, complex, really rather gorgeous nose even if far from the first flush of youth. Sumptuous nose even if on the palate it’s more austere than the nose suggests. Quite grainy tannins on the finish but lovely balance. Very fresh. (JR)

Soft, approachable, medium-bodied and already open, this is a lighter style of Margaux that can be enjoyed today.

01: Dark purple with a gently lightening rim. Open, expansive bouquet, a delicate fruit that feels overripe, almost nutty, rosehip strawberry purée, rock candy. Fine, silky palate, again a ripe, gently compote-like fruit presentation; on the finish, notes of malt and plum. The peppery extract still shows a slightly dominant acidic tip at the moment, but it gives the wine beautiful length. Very similar in fruit ripeness to the ’90, but seems to have a touch better acidity. 17/20 2004–2014

The 2000 Pavillon Rouge exhibits a medium/dark ruby color with some lightening at the edge, notes of cedar, spice box, black cherries, and currants, in a very evolved style at full maturity. Drink it over the next 4–5 years.