The 2003 Chateau Margaux, a Bordeaux blend, hails from the esteemed region of Margaux in Bordeaux, France. This red wine is a true testament to the magic of the vineyard and the craftsmanship of its producer, Chateau Margaux. With a cork closure and an alcohol percentage of 13.0%, the wine is marked by its elegant complexity and profound depth.
Renowned reviewers hold the 2003 Chateau Margaux in high regard, with scores ranging from 93 to 98. The wine is described as being slightly bricking on the rim, quite deep in color, and having retained satisfying freshness. The nose is characterized by dusty red bricks and gravel that infuse the mainly red fruit, with fine delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, harmonious, fresh with good tension and touches of white pepper and clove.
The 2003 vintage is praised for its full maturity, with reviews noting a rich bouquet of spices, meat, and very ripe fruit on the nose, with hints of dried flowers. The palate is deeply layered, full-bodied, and teeming with fruit and spices. The finish is long and decadent, exhibiting complex layers of flavors.
The wine displays notes of torréfaction typical of the vintage, with accents of ganache and dark tobacco leaf along with rich plum, currant, and fig compote flavors. The finish is slightly firm, with alder and plum skin details, but this has pretty impressive composure considering the vintage.
The 2003 Chateau Margaux is recommended to be enjoyed now and through 2035. Despite the challenges of the 2003 weather conditions, the late Paul Pontallier managed to conjure up a very respectable First Growth in this vintage. It's a wine that is lauded for its balance, elegance, admirable tension, and race towards the finish. This First Growth shows its class.