2011 Margaux
By Chateau Margaux
2011 Margaux from Château Margaux, Margaux, Bordeaux, France
The 2011 vintage of the esteemed Margaux from Château Margaux offers a compelling profile, distinguished by the variables that shaped its evolution. Unlike its predecessors and successors, the 2011 vintage encapsulates a unique harmony of conditions that earmark its exclusive character. In the world of fine wine investment, understanding the nuances of vintages such as this is paramount; 2011 Margaux epitomizes such cerebral appeal.
An Year with Elegant Contrasts
The climatic ballet of 2011 posed a test of agility for Bordeaux's vignerons. A precocious bud break due to an unusually warm spring transitioned into a summertime narrative of fluctuating conditions. However, it was the proficient handling by Château Margaux that guided the grapes towards ripeness with grace. This resulted in the 2011 Margaux presenting an exuberant yet distinguished profile.
Taste Profile: The Essence of Precision
In the glass, one finds a Bordeaux that weaves complexity with clarity. The hallmark blackcurrant and ripe plum aromas are enlivened by subtle floral hints and the faintest whisper of oak. Tannins, confident yet finely stitched, promise longevity while maintaining a silk-like texture, inviting contemplation and conversation around collectability and maturation potential.
On the palate, this 2011 Margaux walks a high wire of balance between acid and fruit, demonstrating both structure and sinew. Vibrant red fruit notes dance with gravitas amidst undertones of graphite and violet, leading to a decoded finish that lingers with an educated persistence.
In conclusion, investing in the 2011 Margaux from Château Margaux is not merely an acquisition of a bottle; it is embracing a slice of Bordeaux's story in that year. For collectors and connoisseurs looking to deepen their portfolios with articulated expressions of time and place, the 2011 vintage stands as one to be highlighted, its identity etched within the storied echelons of provenance and performance in wine-led assets.
Current market price
$6,820.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
292.86
Scores and tasting notes
Fabulous aromas of flowers with hints of strawberries and currants. Extremely aromatic. This is full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a racy finish. It is very finely structured but chewy and austere. I like the tension to this. Try in 2018.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, February 20th 2014
Representing 38% of the crop, the Grand Vin is a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc. Harvest began 5th September with the earlier ripening Merlot and finished around the 20th. It has a very strict bouquet, very linear, a no-frills aromatic profile that delivers straight to the senses minerality, with touches of graphite and cedar from the intense Cabernet. The palate is medium-bodied with a more understated entry. The Cabernet is very pure right from the outset with blackberry, graphite, a saline tincture and a touch of black olive. It has a fine framework of taut tannins, beautifully composed as usual, with a finish that unlike 2009 or 2010, is very precise and linear, finishing off dry and abruptly. There is not a great long tail on the finish, but that would not suit this style of Margaux, one that is more masculine in style. Tasted April 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2012
The renowned Chateau Margaux’s 2011 boasts a dark ruby/plum color as well as a fragrant perfume of spring flowers, sweet, supple, well-integrated tannins, medium body, and the elegance and nobility expected from a great first-growth. Although it is not as powerful or concentrated as the 2009 or 2010 (no 2011s are), it possesses finesse, elegance, purity and suppleness. The wine is surprisingly approachable already yet should keep for 15-20 years.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2014
The renowned Chateau Margaux's 2011 boasts a dark ruby/plum color as well as a fragrant perfume of spring flowers, sweet, supple, well-integrated tannins, medium body, and the elegance and nobility expected from a great first-growth. Although it is not as powerful or concentrated as the 2009 or 2010 (no 2011s are), it possesses finesse, elegance, purity and suppleness. The wine is surprisingly approachable already yet should keep for 15-20 years.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #212 Apr 2014