Chateau Margaux   Margaux

2001 Margaux

By Chateau Margaux

2001 Margaux from Chateau Margaux, Margaux, Bordeaux

The turn of the millennium heralded a series of exceptional vintages for Bordeaux, and amongst these, the 2001 Margaux from Chateau Margaux proudly stands as a testament to the estate's remarkable pedigree. My tenure tasting the elixirs of Bordeaux spans four decades, and I can attest that this vintage encapsulates the harmonious quintessence of terroir, climate, and human artistry.

 

A Meritorious Vintage of Enigmatic Elegance

While the illustrious 2000 vintage captivated collectors with its pomp and ceremony, the 2001 was a sleeper poised for greatness, often underestimated in its youth. Though it can be categorized as a cooler year—yielding more restraint and acidic backbone—the 2001 Margaux from Chateau Margaux flourished under such conditions. It has since unfurled into a profound expression of both power and finesse.

 

Ripe for Investment: The Nuanced Character of 2001

The idiosyncrasies of this particular year radiate through in every glass. A deep ruby hue belies the wine's age; a flourish of aniseed, blackcurrant and violets greets the nose in an alluring bouquet; the palate, however, is where this wine asserts its structured complexity—cassis melds seamlessly with hints of truffle, cedar, and a whisper of tobacco, synonymous with the esteemed appellation.

The deftness in which it balances its tannins with a lingering, velvety finish only reinforces its stature as one of the more intriguing investment pieces for connoisseurs and investors alike. Relative to the bolder years that flank it, the 2001 exhibits a disciplined elegance that is rewardingly ageworthy.

The potential of this vintage lies not only in its exemplary composition but also in its steadfast evolution in bottle. As I revisit this intricate marvel now—two decades hence—I am conjured into asserting that significant investment interest is rightfully placed upon this unparalleled offering from Chateau Margaux.

 

Concluding Reflections on 2001 Margaux Investment Virtues

For those who seek to enrich their collection with a wine that marries immediate gratification with long-term maturation potential, look no further than the 2001 Margaux from Chateau Margaux. Its capacity to enchant today whilst promising further aromatic and textural development stands it apart as one of Bordeaux's most compelling investments—and assures its enthusiast that time will surely augment its distinction.

Current market price

$8,440.00

12x75cl

Highest score

95

POP score

338

Scores and tasting notes

95

Tasted blind at Bordeaux Index’s 10-Year On horizontal. This has a classic pencil-lead, Pauillac bouquet with fine delineation and lift, nothing ambitious, no frills but superb focus. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannins and mineralite, black fruits intertwined with graphite and a touch of cedar. Conservative but very well crafted and full of breeding. Tasted March 2011.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2011

94

The 2001 Chateau Margaux continues to evolve in impressive fashion. The nose feels sensual, veering towards red rather than black fruit, with disarming purity and perhaps showing more floral/violet character than the 1999. Both display tremendous precision and delineation. The palate is medium-bodied, edgy and tensile with crisp acidity, so fresh and vital in the mouth. Tasted next to the 1996 Château Margaux, it is clear to see that the 2001 is several steps behind, yet the way it fans out with such confidence and brio on the finish assures that this has a prosperous future. Tasted May 2016.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 October 2016

93

Performing well from bottle, Chateau Margaux’s 2001, which is somewhat reminiscent of both the 1985 and 1999, is an elegant, seamlessly constructed effort with a deep ruby/purple color, and a beautiful nose of flowers, creme de cassis, blackberries, and cedar. A blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot, and 4% Cabernet Franc, this forward, opulent beauty can be drunk now or cellared for 15-20 years. This is one of the most elegant wines of the vintage.

Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #153 June 2004

Vintage performance