1999 Margaux
By Chateau Margaux
1999 Margaux from Chateau Margaux, Bordeaux
Embarking upon the tale of the 1999 Margaux from Chateau Margaux, one unearths a vintage that eloquently articulates the terroir of this illustrious estate. The season’s moderate climate carved out a harvest that matured with grace, presenting investors with an offering brimming with complexity and finesse.
A Testament to Temperance: The 1999 Vintage Hallmarks
The 1999 Margaux, not to be overshadowed by its more ostentatious brethren, encapsulates a quieter brilliance. A balanced ensemble of conditions—free from extremities—bestowed wines with equilibrium, leaning towards finesse rather than power. The absence of excessive heat or rain during the crucial ripening period ensured the grapes developed with a focused profile. As such, investors seeking poised and elegant Bordeaux wines would find a well-judged addition in the ’99 Margaux.
Vinicultural Virtuosity Meets Investment Insight
Chateau Margaux’s adept vinicultural practices are evident in this vintage. Subtle undertones of violet and blackcurrant fuse with hints of pencil lead on the nose, a signature whisper of finely-grained oak persists without dominating. On the palate, layers unfold steadily; a tapestry interwoven with dark fruits, anise, and a minute hint of bell pepper, ending on a lasting note that underlines its ageing pedigree.
The structure of the 1999 Margaux speaks softly but resonates deeply—a gentle acidity paired with supple tannins provides an architecture for sustained cellaring potential. For investors attuned to longevity and the subtle rise in complexity and worth over time, this vintage stands as an articulate choice.
In essence, the 1999 Margaux from Chateau Margaux espouses the virtues of Bordeaux's cherished savoir-faire. It may fly somewhat under the radar compared to more celebrated years; however, therein lies its investment charm. A deft wine from a consistent producer, poised gracefully at maturity's cusp, represents not only a sentimental acquisition but also signifies a prudent asset within one’s collection.
Current market price
£4,590.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
306
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted at the 1999 horizontal at Bordeaux Index. This Chateau Margaux was captivating in its youth and at ten-years of age it displays a wonderful, exuberant bouquet with blackberry, violet, boysenberry, a touch of spice and smoke. The palate is full-bodied, great depth and breadth with firm tannins, there is a real backbone to this Margaux, struck through with a tangible sense of mineralite that sends a tingle down the spice. It does actually take time to coalesce in the glass but it ultimately seduces the palate with its wily feminine charms. Lovely. Drink 2013-2030. Tasted June 2009.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2009
The 1999 Chateau Margaux has been the standout First Growth since I first tasted the wine from barrel. Now reaching its plateau of maturity, it has an understated nose at first, armed with impressive mineralité with a gorgeous graphite seam. The definition and precision here is top class. The palate is medium-bodied and smooth in texture, very harmonious and assured, surprisingly with some new oak still to be fully assimilated into the wine. The signature Margaux traits of crushed black cherries and violets comes through towards the finish, suggestions of raspberry reserve and desiccated orange peel enhancing the long finish. Perhaps I might temper my initial enthusiasm for the 1999 Château Margaux...but only slightly. It comes highly recommended. Tasted May 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 October 2016
The sexy, dark plum/purple-colored 1999 Margaux is already revealing complex aromatics. This surprisingly charming and round offering is reminiscent of a vintage such as 1985. Although neither a blockbuster nor a heavyweight, it grows in the mouth revealing tremendous length as well as purity. Administrator Paul Pontallier prefers it to the more austere 1998, as do I. This is an archetypical Chateau Margaux of richness, finesse, balance, and symmetry. It can be drunk young, but promises to age nicely for two decades. Extrapolating backwards, it would probably have something in common with the underrated 1962 Medocs.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #140 April 2002
A very pretty red with balance and attractive fruit. Underlines how attractive this vintage is and how forgotten it is as well. Medium-to-full body with firm tannins and a raspberry, blackberry and light cedar undertone. Drink or hold.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, July 1st 2013