Appellations

Issan 2021

Margaux, Third Growth

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Tasting Notes

Carefully constructed, has precision and plenty of dark fruits, black tea and grilled spices, good quality, slate tannins suggest the structure for long ageing, although the austerity of En Primeur is still present. Softens to show a ripe fig character through the mid palate and a juicy finish, skilful winemaking, understated but enjoyable; 50% new oak. Second year with all five of the major black grape varieties in the blend, and the Malbec and Petit Verdot make their presence felt.

Score: 94 Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux Maturity: 2026-2041 Date: 21 February 2024

According to Emmanuel Cruse, the 2021 d'Issan is the second vintage to utilize all five permitted grape varieties, picked from September 27 to October 9 and matured in 50% new oak. Quite intense on the nose, it offers layers of raspberry, wild strawberry, iodine and incense aromas. The palate is structured on the entry with a judicious touch of white pepper and clove, building nicely without fully letting go. Linear and detailed on the finish, this is a fine Margaux that should give 20 years of drinking pleasure.

Score: 90 - 92 Neal Martin, Inside Bordeaux Maturity: 2025-2045 Date: 13 May 2022

Discreet but fresh with a faint floral nuance. Medium-bodied with a certain density of tannin but delicate and poised. Margaux elegance if slightly reserved.

Score: 16+ James Lawther MW, JancisRobinson.com Maturity: 2028-2040 Date: 11 May 2022

A very fine yet structured d’Issan with blackcurrant and plum, as well as spice and walnuts. The palate is full and structured with wonderful tannins and length. It really grows on the palate. Serious balance of ripe and fine tannins with pretty fruit and a citrusy undertone. This could move up a notch. 65% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 2% cabernet franc, 2% malbec and 1% petit verdot.

Score: 95 - 96 James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com Date: 01 May 2022

The 2021 d'Issan is supple, easygoing and quite attractive. It will be interesting to see if it develops more complexity and nuance with élevage. Today, Issan comes across as straightforward and lacking both in depth and nuance, while the aromatics are muted. Tasted two times.

Score: 90 - 92 Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Maturity: 2026-2041 Date: 01 May 2022

The 2021 D'Issan is performing well, exhibiting aromas of rich berries, licorice, violets, sweet soil tones and pipe tobacco. Medium to full-bodied, layered and lively, with powdery tannins and a saline finish, it will flesh out with élevage to deliver a supple, perfumed D'Issan that will offer a broad drinking window. It's a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot.

Score: 90 - 93 William Kelley, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Date: 29 April 2022

The deep purple-hued 2021 Château d'Issan is another terrific Margaux, which is an appellation that did well in the vintage. Black raspberries, cassis, spring flowers, and some herbal notes all emerge on the nose, and it's medium-bodied, with a charming, mid-weight style on the palate, good balance, and ripe tannins. It's going to drink nicely right out of the gate. The blend is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 2% each of Cabernet Franc and Malbec, and the rest Petit Verdot.

Score: 91 - 93 Jeb Dunnuck, JebDunnuck.com Date: 06 February 2022