Pavillon Rouge Du Chateau Margaux 2012 (750ML)

94 DE / 91 JA / 91 JS / 91 WE / 91 VM / 90+ WA / 90 WS / 90 WCI / 90 FS / 17.5 JR

A true younger sibling of the first growth, this well-known second wine offers a finely scented bouquet and creamy palate in 2012. Proper Margaux finesse that persists on the palate.-Sebastian Payne MW, Decanter

Attractive sweet and smoky character to the raspberry fruits. This is generous, with subtle caramel and smoked cedar, a delicious Pavillon that is approachable and open, ready to drink but absolutely no rush, it will stay at this level for at least another decade. 30% of overall production.-Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux

A gorgeous red now with chocolate, berry and light mineral character. Full body, round and velvety tannins. So drinkable now and yummy. A blend of 63% cabernet sauvignon, 33% merlot, 1% cabernet franc and 3% petit verdot. Drink or hold.-James Suckling

This is a crisp, red-fruited wine with acidity and fresh tannins. It's lost the austerity it showed at barrel tasting and has become surprisingly fresh, only showing its depths and concentration as it unfolds. The texture is smooth, soft with its firmer tannins very much in the background. It's likely to develop quickly.-Wine Enthusiast

The 2012 Pavillon Rouge is soft, supple and open knit, with plenty of dark red cherry, cherry pit, tobacco and brambly flavors. Initially a bit brooding, the 2012 becomes more finessed with time in the glass. Sweet floral and minty notes add freshness on the finish. The tannins are silky and polished throughout. Drink this supple, forward Pavillon Rouge over the next decade or so.-Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

The second wine of Margaux, the Pavillon Rouge (63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot), exhibits more structure and masculinity than one normally expects. It has a deep ruby/purple color, nice floral and blackcurrant notes, some spice box, moderate tannin and medium body. This is a Pavillon Rouge that should admirably stand the test of time for 15-20 years. Its impressively long finish adds to its appeal and value. This wine will actually benefit from several years of bottle age and keep for 20 years.-Robert M. Parker, Jr., The Wine Advocate

Very stylish, with a caressing feel to the steeped plum, blackberry and raspberry fruit, lined with subtle black tea and alder notes. The long, graceful finish has lovely mouthfeel. For fans of the understated style. Drink now through 2022. 10,833 cases made. - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator

Flowers, cherries, cocoa and smoke create the inviting nose. On the palate the wine is medium bodied, fresh, bright and crisp, with a sweet and tart, elegant black cherry finish-Jeff Leve, Wine Cellar Insider

63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot. Very fragrant indeed. Lift and restraint. Not TOO sweet compared with some other Médocs in 2012. Lovely balance. Very clean and healthy. Modestly scaled. Very precise and neat. Very discreet – beautiful really is an apt word for this.-Jancis Robinson