2022 Château d'Issan Margaux

James Suckling has ranked Chateau D'Issan 2022: No. 1 in his Top 100 World Wines 2025 as " Wine of the Year "

History of Château d'Issan

Château d'Issan is a historic estate in the Margaux appellation, located in the heart of the Médoc. Dating back to the 17th century, the château has been classified as a third cru of Bordeaux since the 1855 classification. Bordering some of Margaux's most famous appellations, the vineyard is known for wines of elegance, precision, and refined structure. Since 1945, the estate has been owned by the Cruse family, who, along with co-owner Jacky Lorenzetti, ensure a combination of tradition and modern precision. The focus is on terroir expression and a pure, balanced style typical of Margaux.

Region and terroir

The Margaux appellation, located in the southern part of the Médoc, is renowned for its elegant, silky wines. The soil consists of deep gravel layers with clay and sand, ideal for growing Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The proximity of the Gironde River creates a mild microclimate that helps the grapes ripen slowly and evenly. Château d'Issan owns approximately 59 hectares of vineyards, which average 35 years old. This combination of terroir, climate, and old vines produces wines that combine power with aromatic finesse and remarkable balance.

The 2022 Château d'Issan

The 2022 vintage is one of the most impressive wines ever produced at Château d'Issan. It was characterized by a warm summer with ample moisture reserves, resulting in perfectly ripe grapes that retained their freshness. The wine is composed of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, 2% Malbec, and 1% Petit Verdot. Harvest took place between September 15th and 28th, the ideal time to maintain the balance between ripeness and tension. James Suckling awarded the wine an exceptional score of 98 points, calling it perhaps the greatest wine ever produced at this château. According to him, the wine displays notes of black currant, orange peel, cedar, and dried mushrooms, with a medium to full body and growing intensity on the palate. The tannins are refined, slightly chewy, and typical of classic Bordeaux. The wine is complex, energetic, and full of life, a testament to d'Issan's resurgence.

Vinification and maturation

The grapes are harvested entirely by hand and rigorously selected by plot. Vinification takes place in temperature-controlled concrete and stainless steel tanks, ensuring each component of the blend retains its character. After fermentation, aging takes place for 16 to 18 months in French oak barriques, approximately half of which are new. This provides structure and aromatic complexity without overpowering the fruit. The 2022 Château d'Issan combines the classic character of Margaux with the precision of modern viticulture, resulting in a wine that is already tempting, yet can also age for decades.

Color, smell and taste

In the glass, the wine displays a deep ruby red color with purple reflections. The nose is intense and complex, with aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, orange peel, violet, and cedar. With aeration, notes of graphite, spice, and a subtle mushroom note emerge. The palate is refined and layered, with a core of juicy black fruit, supported by vibrant acidity and elegant, fine-grained tannins. The texture is silky, the finish long and mineral. There is a subtle tension between ripeness and freshness that keeps the wine energetic. The 2022 d'Issan is already impressive, but will continue to develop and refine in the coming years. Recommended for drinking: at its best from 2028 onwards, but even now a pleasure for those who appreciate its youthful vigor.

Would you like to order Château d'Issan 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 these 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 "Pickup" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off 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 garlic: the spicy notes and fat of the meat are perfectly balanced by the elegant tannins.
• Beef stew with truffle mashed potatoes: the depth and warmth of the dish complement the ripe fruit aromas and structure of the wine.
• Duck breast with orange and thyme: the fresh citrus notes of the sauce complement the lively acidity of the wine.
• Mushroom and Parmesan risotto: the earthy and creamy notes enhance the complexity of the glass.
• Roast pigeon with figs and balsamic vinegar: the savoury meat and light sweetness find a natural harmony with the fruity core.
• Hard cheese such as Comté or old Gouda: the ripe tannins and elegant structure make the combination rich and refined.