2021 Château Palmer Margaux Grand Cru Classé

Château Palmer Winery

Château Palmer ranks among the absolute top wines in the Margaux appellation and is known for its distinctive style within the Médoc region. The estate has been operating biodynamically for years and emphasizes precision in the vineyard, low yields, and careful vinification. Under the leadership of Thomas Duroux, Palmer developed a signature wine that combines power and sensuality with freshness and finesse. Both the red Grand Vin and Alter Ego are considered benchmarks for Margaux.

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

Margaux and the 2021 vintage

The Margaux appellation is known for its elegant and aromatic style, often with floral notes and refined tannins. The soils consist of gravel and clay, which ensures good drainage while also providing sufficient water retention during drier periods. This combination produces wines with structure and aromatic complexity.

The 2021 vintage had a challenging growing season, with high disease pressure in the spring. Thanks to biodynamic methods and a dry, warm final phase of the season, the grapes were still able to fully ripen. The result is a wine with moderate alcohol, fresh acidity, and classic balance.

Vineyards and biodynamic methods

Château Palmer boasts vineyards with a high clay content, which contributes to the breadth and texture of the wine. The plots are farmed biodynamically, with attention to soil cover and biodiversity. This approach helps maintain balance in the vineyard, especially in years with variable weather conditions.

In 2021, yields were approximately twenty percent lower due to powdery mildew pressure, but this was accompanied by higher concentration and intensity in the fruit.

Grape varieties and composition

The 2021 Château Palmer is a blend of 56% Merlot, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Petit Verdot. Merlot provides juiciness and texture, Cabernet Sauvignon adds structure and freshness, while Petit Verdot adds extra spice and depth.

The grapes were harvested relatively late, resulting in ripe fruit with retained acidity. This contributes to the combination of power and energy that characterizes this vintage.

Harvest and vinification

After manual harvesting, the grapes were rigorously selected. Fermentation took place with careful attention to gentle yet complete extraction, ensuring the balance of color, aroma, and tannins.

Following the château's established philosophy, the wine was first aged for a year in barriques and then for a second year in large oak casks. This method allows for a more subtle integration of the wood and adds nuance and refinement to the wine.

Color, smell and taste

In the glass, the wine reveals a deep ruby red color. The nose is expressive and complex, with aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, cherry, and mulberry, complemented by floral notes of iris and violet. There are also hints of dark chocolate, spices, lavender, and a light mocha note.

On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, with a concentrated core of juicy fruit. The tannins are rich and sweet in structure, while the acidity provides freshness and length. The finish is long, layered, and expansive, with a clear balance between power and elegance.

Structure, style and storage potential

The 2021 Château Palmer is dense and intense, yet remains remarkably fresh and vibrant. The combination of texture, ripe fruit, and crisp acidity makes this a wine that will develop slowly and in layers.

Thanks to its structure and balance, this vintage has exceptional ageing potential. With bottle aging, the wine will gain complexity and further develop its aromatic layers.

Summary of professional reviews

William Kelley rates the 2021 Château Palmer 95+ points, praising its concentration, ripe fruit, and sweet tannins. Antonio Galloni awards it 96 points, highlighting its breadth, texture, and intensity, with a clear Merlot influence and excellent aging potential. James Suckling rates the wine 96-97 points, praising its freshness, floral notes, and long, elegant finish. The full review texts can be found in the Professional Reviews tab.

Would you like to order Château Palmer 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

Rack of lamb with rosemary and a light jus complements the texture and spicy notes.

Grilled entrecote with black pepper goes well with the structure and ripe tannins.

Beef stew with bay leaf and thyme enhances the depth and juicy fruit.

Duck breast with cherry sauce combines beautifully with the floral and fruity character.

Fried mushrooms with polenta complement the earthy nuances.

Mature cheeses such as old Comté or Tomme de Savoie enhance the length and finesse of the finish.