Critic Notes
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. Mar 2017, www.jamessuckling.com
Score: 97-98/100James Suckling
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 than 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. Apr 2017, www.decanter.com, Drink: 2027-2050
Score: 96-/100DecanterDrinking Window: 2027-2050
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. Apr 2017, www.vinous.com
Score: 94-97/100Antonio Galloni
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. Apr 2017, Roger Voss, www.wineenthusiast.com
Score: 94-96/100Wine Enthusiast
The 2016 Pavillon Blanc du Chateau Margaux features fresh grapefruit, white peaches and lemon juice scents springing from the glass, followed by lime leaves, wet pebbles and elderflower plus a touch of honeysuckle. The palate is medium-bodied, elegant and fresh with loads of vivacity and a long, mineral-laced finish. Nov 2018, www.robertparker.com
Score: 94-/100Lisa Perrotti-Brown
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. Apr 2017, www.robertparker.com, Drink: 2019-2032
Score: 92-94/100Neal MartinDrinking Window: 2019-2032
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. Apr 2017, www.jancisrobinson.com, Drink: 2019-2030
Score: 17-/20Jancis RobinsonDrinking Window: 2019-2030
