Wines Margaux Château Margaux - Premier Cru Classe - 1996

Viniou Reviews

Château Margaux 1996, from the renowned Margaux appellation in Bordeaux, stands as one of the great expressions of left bank claret. This Premier Cru Classé is crafted primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, Petit Verdot, and a small proportion of Cabernet Franc, resulting in a vibrant yet deeply complex wine. The 1996 vintage is particularly celebrated for its structure and longevity, marked by an extended growing season that allowed grapes to achieve perfect phenolic ripeness, giving the wine both power and finesse. Ageing in new French oak for 18-24 months has contributed subtle spice and elegance, layering finely integrated tannins and a bouquet of blackcurrant, cedar, violet, and graphite, evolving with age towards truffle, cigar box, and soft earthy undertones.

The Margaux region, situated in the southern part of the Médoc, is renowned for its exceptional terroir, characterised by well-drained gravel soils atop limestone and clay subsoils, ideal for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon of great finesse and aromatic purity. The temperate maritime climate, with its proximity to the Gironde estuary, moderates temperature extremes, offering the long, slow ripening conditions necessary for nuanced expression and ageing potential. Historically, Margaux has been celebrated as the most perfumed and graceful of the Médoc communals, with its wines revered for their aromatic complexity and silken texture.

With its elegant structure and evolving bouquet, Château Margaux 1996 pairs beautifully with classic French cuisine—think roast lamb with rosemary, duck breast, or a simple entrecôte Bordelaise with shallots and red wine reduction. Regional dishes such as canard aux cèpes or medallions of veal with morel mushrooms are equally harmonious, while mature cheeses like Comté or aged Gruyère can further complement the wine’s tertiary notes.

For optimal enjoyment, serve at 17-18°C after decanting gently for at least two hours, allowing the wine’s bouquet to fully open and its finely matured textures to shine. This bottle represents a pinnacle of Bordeaux winemaking and should be savoured at leisure.