Sold under the name of “Château Margaux 2nd wine”, it took its permanent name of Pavillon Rouge du Château Margaux in 1908. The quality of Pavillon Rouge has become very close to that of the first wine because all the plots involved contributed to the blending of Château Margaux not so long ago. Of course there isn’t the same complexity, the same depth, the same “magic” but the flavours are close and the balance in the mouth leads to the same subtle senses of power and softness. In general it is ready to drink a little earlier whilst retaining an excellent potential to age largely beyond 30 or 40 years.

The Pavillon Rouge 2020 blend is fairly classic: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc.

Pavillon Rouge represents 31% of the harvest. Even though our selection criteria were as strict as for previous vintages, the percentage of Pavillon Rouge is slightly higher this year thanks to the consistency of quality conducive to great vintages. Besides this year’s climatic conditions, we hope that this increased quality is also the fruit of our efforts in the parcels whose quality approaches that of the Grand Vin.

"Tasted blind. Deep crimson. Dark-fruited, open and floral plus a slight jamminess. Pretty oaky, especially on the finish. A bit dense and unyielding on the mid palate, the fruit currently dominated by the structure. Firm, dry finish. Drink to 2040."
17 points.
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com (February 2024)