2003 Chateau Margaux

2003 Chateau Margaux

2003 was an extremely hot vintage in Bordeaux, thus it benefited the Cabernet Sauvignon as they’re a very hardy grape, while the Merlot grapes suffered, thus smart buyers will avoid any 2003, particularly from Pomerol or any right bank that’s based on Merlot grape varietal. For example, Le Pin did not produce any wine in 2003 due to the heatwave. Even though many drinkers had the misconception that Margaux mainly produced Merlot based wines, while it was true for many Margaux vineyards, Chateau Margaux is predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon based. A whiff and the inky and iodine notes were really pronounced. A sip and I was taken aback by the softness of the body, as I was expecting hardiness and tannins as the Cabernet Sauvignon needs to resist the weather and grow thicker in skins, I did not expect the wine being so soft and silky, plus huge amount of complexity. Then I suddenly thought of Lafite 2003 being similar character as well. I must confess they deserve to be first growth as they do produce very unique wine style even on a harsh heatwave based weather.