2021, Château d'Issan, MARGAUX, 3ème Grand Cru Classé

Bordeaux Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot.

This 55 hectare Margaux property is planted a majority Cabernet Sauvignon, with a good proportion of Merlot. Newly purchased plots containing old vines of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot have been added to the blend from 2020.

A very fine yet structured d'Issan with blackcurrant and plum, as well as spice and walnuts. The palate is full and structured with wonderful tannins and length. It really grows on the palate. Serious balance of ripe and fine tannins with pretty fruit and a citrusy undertone. This could move up a notch. 65% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 2% cabernet franc, 2% malbec and 1% petit verdot. 95-96 James Suckling.

Rich aromatics, fresh acidities, careful extraction showcasing black tea and saffron spice notes, balanced and elegant, building in momentum through the palate. Skilful winemaking with plenty of grip. Has austerity through the mid palate, but no dip, and the tannins elongate towards the finish, giving salinity and a mouthwatering kick. You can clearly imagine this ageing well. 94 Jane Anson.

Dark and deep on the nose, seductive, that beautiful Margaux glamour and elegance - it's completely captivating with hints of violet and rose too after a few minutes. So succulent and juicy on the palate, the tannins are silky, barely present in terms of overt texture but they do give support so you get a great mouthfeel here. The definition is excellent, a real precision of fruit with richness and energy, beautiful redcurrant, raspberry, blackcurrant and black cherry flavours. Well extracted with the aromatics taking centre stage instead of overt power or tannic interference. A joy to drink! 94 Georgina Hindle, Decanter.

According to Emmanuel Cruse, the 2021 d'Issan is the second vintage to utilise all five permitted grape varieties, picked from September 27 to October 9 and matured in 50% new oak. Quite intense on the nose, it offers layers of raspberry, wild strawberry, iodine and incense aromas. The palate is structured on the entry with a judicious touch of white pepper and clove, building nicely without fully letting go. Linear and detailed on the finish, this is a fine Margaux that should give 20 years of drinking pleasure. 90-92 Neal Martin.