Pavillon Rouge 2002

Characteristics and tasting tips for Pavillon Rouge 2002

Tasting

Colour
This red wine shows a deep ruby hue in its youth, gently shifting towards superb garnet highlights as it evolves.

Nose
Remarkably pure, the bouquet first reveals aromas of red and black fruit such as cherry and blackcurrant, underscored by hints of vanilla and sweet spices. Over time, it gains complex nuances of blond tobacco, fine leather and cedar.

Palate
Initially marked by a classic structure and a touch of austerity, the palate has now become perfectly harmonious. It offers a velvety, rounded texture supported by softened tannins, stretching into a balanced, lingering finish.

Food and wine pairings

This wine pairs beautifully with roast fillet of beef, duck breast or herb-crusted lamb chops. It will also elevate more contemporary dishes such as a rack of veal with wild mushrooms or slow-cooked lamb.

Serving and cellaring

To fully appreciate Pavillon Rouge 2002, serve at around 17–18°C and decant gently to preserve its tertiary aromas. Already delicious now, it has remarkable ageing potential and can be cellared for many more years.

The elegance and depth of a Margaux second wine

The estate

A true jewel of Bordeaux, Château Margaux began its winemaking history in earnest in 1572 under the leadership of Pierre de Lestonnac. Ranked as a Premier Grand Cru Classé in 1855, this legendary estate now combines a Neo-Palladian architectural heritage with a constant pursuit of innovation. Still owned by Corinne Mentzelopoulos, the illustrious estate is now in the hands of the third generation, with Alexis Leven-Mentzelopoulos as Managing Director and Alexandra Mentzelopoulos as Chair of the Supervisory Board.

The vineyard

Located in the heart of the Margaux appellation, the vineyard planted with red grape varieties covers around 87 hectares. The vines flourish on a complex geological mosaic dominated by deep gravel, complemented by clay and limestone. Benefiting from a temperate oceanic climate and the moderating influence of the Gironde estuary, this exceptional terroir undergoes an extremely rigorous plot-by-plot selection.

The vintage

The year was marked by contrasting weather conditions. After a difficult flowering that led to millerandage, the summer proved cool and damp, slowing the vine's growth cycle. However, the arrival of dry, warm and particularly sunny weather from September onwards allowed the berries to reach optimal ripeness ahead of a harvest that began at the end of the month.

Vinification and ageing

The making of Pavillon Rouge 2002 relies on a strict selection of lots, setting aside less fully developed berries. Vinification is carried out with precision to extract the fruit's substance gently, thereby preserving its integrity. The wine is then carefully aged in oak barrels, which lend a perfectly integrated oak structure that supports the wine's natural elegance.

Grape varieties

This second wine is made from a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc.