Château d’Issan Margaux Grand Cru Classé 2018

Wine Name: Château d’Issan
Vintage: 2018
Classification: Grand Cru Classé (1855 Classification)
Region: Bordeaux, France
Appellation: AOC Margaux
Grape Varieties: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot
Alcohol Content: 14.0% ABV
Maturation: Aged 18 months in French oak barrels, 53% new, to enhance complexity and aging potential.

Tasting Note:
The 2018 Château d’Issan is a modern benchmark for this historic Margaux estate—a wine of thrilling complexity, structure, and finesse. The nose opens with a captivating medley of ripe blackcurrants, blood orange peel, cedar wood, and subtle earthy notes of dried mushroom and graphite. Hints of violet, tobacco, and spice deepen the aromatic profile.

On the palate, this is suave and structured, with a medium to full body that builds in depth and breadth. The tannins are firm, crunchy, and lightly chewy—slightly austere yet perfectly in line with the classical Margaux style. The finish is persistent, mouth-coating, and charged with electric energy and vibrancy.

Critical Acclaim:
🌟 Rated 96/100 – James Suckling

Food Pairing & Service:
Serve at 17–18 °C. Pairs beautifully with roast lamb, duck breast, venison, and truffled dishes. Ideal with hard cheeses or refined game cuisine.

Drinking Window:
Already expressive with decanting but best from 2028 onward. Will evolve gracefully through 2040 and beyond.