White Pavilion - Château Margaux

La Revue du Vin de France

16,5-17,5 / 20

the6/6/2017

Finesse, très grande allonge, il est porté par une tension très bien calée et des saveurs d'agrumes.

Wine Advocate

92-94 / 100

byNeal Martinthe5/2/2017

The 2016 Pavillon Blanc du Chateau Margaux was picked between 8 and 13 September and represents just one-third of the production due to a strict selection, around 10,000 bottles. Matured in 20% new oak in more demi-muids than before, it has a glorious bouquet with lime flower, passion fruit and a touch of lychee all with wonderful definition. The palate is very well balanced with a smooth, slightly viscous texture. The acidity counterbalances the richness here and it is blessed with gorgeous tropical tones on the tensile finish. This is excellent.

Vinous

94-97 / 100

byAntonio Gallonithe4/26/2017

The 2016 Pavillon Blanc is one of the most refined whites of the vintage. Orchard fruit, white flowers, mint and slate notes are beautifully vivid and delineated throughout. Creamy, pliant and polished to the core, the 2016 is simply exceptional. For readers who can find it and afford the price tag, the 2016 Pavillon Blanc is a total knockout and a wine of true aristocratic breeding.

Jancis Robinson

17 / 20

byJancis Robinsonthe4/25/2017

Picked 8-13 September. Almost oily and creamy. Lovely precision. Racy and lively. Very pure and luxurious. The closest to Petit Cheval Blanc. Very limey and energetic. Lanolin and really refreshing. Drink 2019-2030

matthewjukes.com

19 / 20

byMatthew Jukesthe4/25/2017

(100 Sauvignon Blanc) | 13% alc. | Only 30% crop was used. Very bold, tight and unusually sour and with a bite of skin and pith, this is a wine which needs age and it will retain fantastic freshness for a long time. The acidity is heightened because of the cool nights and as everything was harvested before the September rains it is more linear and sour than ever. Amazing length and amazing individuality, this is an awesome Sauvignon Blanc. It might even make two decades. 19+

Decanter.com

96 / 100

byJane Ansonthe4/24/2017

They started harvesting the whites here on 8th September, three or four days earlier than last year and earlier than planned after checking the acidity levels - an excellent decision as this is easily one of the best white wines of Bordeaux this year. It has grip, tension and a wealth of aromatics that is surprising as it is 100% Sauvignon Blanc, and it was the Semillons that resisted the heat a little better down in Pessac. With steely citrus, slate, mineral and a sappy finish, it hugs throughout the palate. All the white grapes had come in by 13th September, and the pH is a vibrant 3.2. Valerie Lavigne, long-time associate of Denis Dubourdieu, works with the team on the white wine. Yield of 23hl/ha. Drinking Window 2020 - 2035

Wine Enthusiast

94-96 / 100

byRoger Vossthe4/19/2017

Barrel Sample. While it is certainly rich, this 100% Sauvignon Blanc also has great swathes of crisp fruit. Notes of spice and toast are already finely in balance. It is beautiful and harmonious, full of tropical fruits as well as a zesty aftertaste.

Jamessuckling.com

97-98 / 100

byJames Sucklingthe4/5/2017

This is really exciting with a vivid and energetic acidity and brightness. Lemon rind, pear and mineral character. Full-bodied, tight and long. A winner. Great finish.