Chateau Margaux has produced the lowest levels of wine since 1991, showing their commitment to the finest quality and the highest vintage standards.

Paul Pontallier of Chateau Margaux remained optimistic on the outlook of the ’11 vintage, telling Jeff Leve of the Wine Spectator that it compared to the 2008 vintage, with more purity. Even though they managed to keep the percentage of the harvest used in the Grand Vin the same, they took quite a hit from the harsh summer, with yields standing at only 29 hectoliters per hectare. This is the lowest level of production at Chateau Margaux since 1991.

This shows commitment to the harvest in terms of quality and standards, which means that the ’11 wine is a resounding success across the board. The tannins are in fact higher than in recent years, which is largely a reflection of the early harvest and low yields. But the tannins are ripe, and are therefore soft, which reflects the quality of the appellation.

And even though this may have been aided by technology, one question Mr Leve has been consistently asking producers is whether this means that Bordeaux has lost its soul. To this, Mr Pontallier replies that older tasters from previous generations would undoubtedly still recognise Margaux today.

He told Mr Leve in the Wine Spectator: “The continuing thread of wines made at Chateau Margaux is found in the nose. Even though the wines are bigger and riper, the perfume remains constant.  Body, length and density have changed over the years, but not character of the wines at Chateau Margaux”.

The wine scorings came out very well considering the harsh conditions that had been endured over the summer. According to Mr Leve’s tasting notes, the 2011 Margaux scored between 94 and 95 points, with a delicate, complicated scents of violets, mocha, smoke, truffle, blackberry, cassis and an array of spices.

2011 Pavillon Rouge suffered from the elements, but 2011 Pavillon Blanc benefited, with its  long, citrus-filled finish scoring it a noteworthy 93-94 Points.