In Bond Fine Wine. 2020 Château Issan, Margaux, Bordeaux, France. Third Growth • Red Bordeaux in 6x75cl. Top critic score: 94/100 (NM). Drinking window: 2025–2060. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Chateau d'Issan has a history stretching back to the 12th century (records show that wine from the estate was served at the wedding of Henry Plantagenet to Eleanor of Aquitaine in 1152. A Third Growth in Margaux in the 1855 classification, Issan is also one of the Medoc’s standout estates. In 2020 they began adding Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and a tiny proportion of very old-vine Malbec (planted 1948) into the blend. They continue to invest and innovate, and following detailed soil analysis, a small plot has been planted with white grapes (Roussane, Marsanne, Viognier, Rolle). Issan offers exciting Margaux quality and pedigree at a relatively accessible price point.
Neal Martin (NM) — 93–95/100 · Vinous, 27/05/2021 · Drink 2026 - 205
The 2020 Chateau d'Issan, picked from September 17 to October 2 and blended in early January, then matured in 50% new oak, has a beautiful and very pure bouquet of blackberry, blueberry and light cranberry notes intertwined with crushed stone and subtle potpourri and violet scents, all wonderfully focused and exquisitely defined. The palate is medium-bodied with gentle but insistent grip on the e…
Jancis Robinson MW (JR) — 17.5/20 · JancisRobinson.com, 26/04/2021 · Drink 2028-2045
55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec (the latter three from parcels of Pontac-Lynch acquired in March 2020 ' the Petit Verdot planted in 1948). 45% of the production. Classic Issan but with more aromatic complexity and a tad more length. Intense, floral with smooth, elegant tannins and balancing freshness. Persistent finish. (JL) 13.3%
James Suckling (JS) — 97–98/100 · JamesSuckling.com, 26/04/2021
Extremely floral and fruity with currants and blackberries. It's full-bodied and very layered with delicious, dense character. Full-bodied with dusty, layered tannins. Rich, but not heavy. Long and chewy on the finish. 55% cabernet sauvignon, 39% merlot, 3% cabernet franc, 2% petit verdot and 1% malbec.