2021 Château Margaux Pavillon Blanc

Château Margaux Winery

Château Margaux ranks among Bordeaux's finest and has been a benchmark in the Médoc since the 1855 classification. In addition to the renowned Grand Vin red, the estate also produces Pavillon Blanc, an iconic white wine with a unique identity. The winery is known for its meticulous approach in the vineyard and cellar, where precision, balance, and terroir are paramount. Pavillon Blanc has long been considered one of Bordeaux's most refined dry white wines.

More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.

Bordeaux and the style of Pavillon Blanc

Pavillon Blanc is produced in the Bordeaux appellation and comes from plots specifically planted for white grapes. The vineyards are situated on cool, well-draining soils that create tension and aromatic precision. Due to their proximity to the Gironde estuary, the plots benefit from tempering influences, which is essential for preserving freshness.

In recent years, Château Margaux has consciously opted for a tighter, more energetic style for Pavillon Blanc. The focus is on freshness, minerality, and length, with less emphasis on weight and oak dominance. The 2021 vintage is considered a compelling example of this approach.

The 2021 vintage in Bordeaux

The 2021 vintage was characterized by a cool and challenging growing season. This proved particularly beneficial for white wines, with grapes that optimally retained their aromatic tension and natural acidity. The lower temperatures resulted in wines with clarity, finesse, and a distinctly pure profile.

For Pavillon Blanc, this means a wine less built on power, but excelling in precision and refinement. This vintage combines intensity with a remarkably light and fresh style.

Grape variety and vineyards

Pavillon Blanc is made exclusively from Sauvignon Blanc. The grapes come from carefully selected plots within the estate, where the soils and exposure contribute to aromatic concentration and mineral tension.

The low yields and strict selection ensure that only the highest quality fruit is used. The grapes are harvested when freshness, ripeness, and aromatic expression are perfectly balanced.

Harvest and vinification

After manual harvesting, the grapes are gently pressed to obtain pure juice. Vinification focuses on preserving aromas and tension, with a precisely controlled fermentation.

The wine is partially aged in oak barrels, with the wood used deliberately restrained. The goal is to enhance structure and texture without masking freshness or terroir character. This approach results in a wine with depth and precision.

Color, smell and taste

In the glass, the wine displays a clear, light golden yellow color. The nose is very precise, with aromas of lime, pink grapefruit, and pear, complemented by white flowers, green almond, and a fresh mint note. There are also mineral notes reminiscent of wet stone and flint.

On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, with a distinctly fresh and vibrant acidity. Flavors of citrus, white peach, and subtle tropical fruit are supported by a salty minerality. The finish is tight, long, and energetic, with impressive purity.

Structure, style and storage potential

The 2021 Pavillon Blanc is built on tension and precision. The wine already shows class, but clearly benefits from bottle aging. With age, the structure will further open, and the aromatic layers will gain complexity.

Thanks to its combination of freshness, concentration, and balance, this wine has excellent aging potential. Within its drinking window, it will develop into an even more complete and profound expression.

Summary of professional reviews

William Kelley rates this wine 94 points, calling it a benchmark for the clean, energetic style of Pavillon Blanc. Antonio Galloni awards it 95 points, praising its harmony, precision, and aging potential. James Suckling awards it 99 points, highlighting its phenomenal acidity, compact fruit, and exceptional refinement. The full review texts can be found in the Professional Reviews tab.

Would you like to order Château Margaux wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you this information when you order this wine. 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 the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

Wine and food pairings

Turbot with beurre blanc and citrus peel complements the wine’s tension and fresh acidity.

Grilled lobster with fennel and a light butter sauce enhances the creamy texture and mineral core.

Scallops with cauliflower cream and a hint of lemon go well with the precision and length.

Risotto with lemon, Parmesan and white truffle combines beautifully with the layering of the wine.

White asparagus with hollandaise sauce and almond complements the refined texture.

Roasted chicken with sage and lemon works well with the balance between freshness and depth.