2015 Château Palmer Margaux Grand Cru Classé

Château Palmer: classic Margaux with its own signature

Château Palmer ranks among the absolute pinnacle of the Margaux appellation. Classified as a Troisième Grand Cru Classé in 1855, the château has long been known for its distinctive Merlot-driven style and the finesse typical of Margaux. Since the appointment of Thomas Duroux as director in 2004, Palmer has taken a major step forward in quality. The switch to biodynamics in 2014 reinforces the pursuit of terroir purity and expression, which is clearly evident in this outstanding 2015 vintage.

Location and terroir of the estate

Château Palmer is located in the communes of Margaux and Cantenac, on gravelly plateaus with fine gravel and sandy clay. These soils provide excellent drainage and retain heat, crucial for the slow and complete ripening of Cabernet and Merlot. The proximity of the Gironde provides a moderating influence during warm summers, maintaining the balance between ripeness and freshness.

Grapes and vinification in 2015

The 2015 vintage is composed of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, and 6% Petit Verdot. The grapes were harvested entirely by hand and vinified plot by plot. Fermentation took place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by approximately 20 months of aging in French oak barriques, 70% of which were new. Every step was focused on precision and preserving aromatic tension and structure.

Color, odor and flavor profile

Château Palmer 2015 reveals itself in the glass with a deep ruby red color. The nose is intense and complex, with aromas of blackcurrant, dark cherry, plum, violet, cedar, graphite, and a subtle floral note.

On the palate, the wine is rich yet remarkably refined. Its structure is velvety smooth with silky tannins, balanced acidity, and a layered flavor profile. Notes of ripe dark fruit, spices, black tea, and a hint of dark chocolate are beautifully supported by a long, elegant finish. The wine exudes class and possesses that characteristic Margaux elegance with a deep core and excellent aging potential.

Assessment and potential

The 2015 was widely recognized as one of Château Palmer's finest vintages. Its combination of richness, balance, freshness, and structure makes it a wine that already exudes charm, yet will develop beautifully in the coming decades. Its cellaring potential easily extends to 2045–2060.

Would you like to order Palmer wines online?

In the "Attachments" tab, you'll find the official fact sheet for this fine wine. We'll automatically send it to you when you order it. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at checkout. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address .

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Wine and food suggestions

1. Grilled entrecôte with black garlic and rosemary jus
The spicy, deep flavours of the dish are harmoniously carried by the concentrated yet elegant structure of the wine.

2. Venison fillet with cocoa sauce and parsnip cream
The juicy game and earthy notes enhance the dark fruit character and refined tannins.

3. Roast leg of lamb with Provencal herbs and aubergine
The spicy crust and creamy vegetable notes complement the aromatic depth and length of the Palmer.

4. Risotto with truffle, Parmesan and wild mushrooms
The creaminess and umami of the risotto find a natural balance with the soft texture and floral complexity of the wine.

5. Beef cheek in red wine sauce with celeriac puree
The powerful flavour and long cooking time of the meat reflect the length, strength and finesse of this Margaux.

6. Duck breast with cherry compote and balsamic reduction
The fruitiness and acidity in the dish enhance the ripe character and elegant freshness of the wine.