1983 Chateau Palmer

1983 Chateau Palmer

This is a truly extraordinary wine and one of the greatest Bordeaux I have ever tasted. A perfect ten out of ten, and remarkably, it even surpasses the legendary 1983 Château Margaux. The 1983 vintage is widely regarded as a monumental year for Margaux, and the long standing debate between Château Margaux and Château Palmer in this vintage is fully justified. After tasting, I firmly believe that Château Palmer 1983 holds the upper hand.

Despite its Third Growth classification, Château Palmer in 1983 transcended hierarchy and delivered First Growth quality with absolute authority. The blend is dominated by a high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon, supported by Merlot and a small addition of Petit Verdot, with Cabernet Sauvignon playing a particularly commanding role in this vintage.

The bouquet is breathtaking, offering classic Margaux perfume with violets, cigar box, and an intensely floral, elegant aromatic profile. On the palate, the wine is nothing short of stunning. It is rich yet refined, silky and velvety, clearly showcasing the generosity of Merlot alongside the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon. The finish is extraordinarily long and persistent, lingering with grace and precision.

Now more than 40 years on, this wine is drinking magnificently. It is fully expressive, harmonious, and deeply satisfying, yet still remarkably alive. With proper storage, it can comfortably continue for another 20 to 30 years, and for those accustomed to long lived Bordeaux, even 30 to 50 more years would not be surprising.

A truly immortal wine and a benchmark Margaux! (02/2026)