If you know anything about Margaux, it’s probably about the iconic Chateau Margaux. But there’s lots to the appellation besides the famous First-Growth chateau. Margaux’s sandy, gravel-filled soils produce some of the Left Bank’s most elegant red wines; Jancis Robinson cites their “haunting perfume,” and “silky texture.”
One of our favorite discoveries from Margaux is Chateau Larrieu-Terrefort. We’re not claiming it competes with its famous neighbor, but with Chateau Margaux running $750 per bottle, this sub-$50 cuvée is a comparative bargain. Margaux has exceptional terroir – don’t limit yourself to experiencing it only as a splurge.
This is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot, and offers affordable refinement and class. The terrific 2019 vintage is at work here, with perfectly structured tannins and exquisite balance. The nose is sophisticated and pretty with notes of sweet spice and oak; the mouth is fine and long with a delicate balance and very long finish. We had pegged this for the back of the cellar, but opened a bottle at a Depot tasting this month and it was a surprise hit. Throw this into a decanter for an hour and you’ll swear you paid more than you did.
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Chateau Larrieu-Terrefort Margaux 2019
bottle price: $48
