1999
1999
1999
The same scenario as in 1998 was almost repeated in 1999: an exceptional spell of fine weather in August and early September brought the grapes to near-perfect ripeness levels. Then heavy rains at the end of September—just a few days too early—prevented the grapes from reaching the maturity of great vintages, as in 1998, or caused a slight dilution, as was the case in 1999. In both cases, the wines were "almost" great vintages. It is clear that a period of fine weather in August is of crucial importance, while rain—even heavy rain—during the harvest is not necessarily a handicap.
Château Margaux 1999 stands out for its great finesse, intensity and aromatic complexity. The nose combines great purity and great classicism. On the palate, it first reveals delicacy and suppleness, then softness, richness and density, before finishing with great length, displaying the wine’s true power. An extremely charming Château Margaux—hard to resist today—yet full of surprises. A great success. (February 2025)
Climate
After an early flowering, the summer was hot and sunny, with isolated rainy spells: optimal conditions to the ripening of the grapes, but also to the onset of downy mildew. From 20th August to 10th September, the very dry weather brought the ripening and the concentration of the grapes to exceptional levels; then heavy rains came until the end of September. (The picking began on 22nd September)
The same scenario as in 1998 was almost repeated in 1999: an exceptional spell of fine weather in August and early September brought the grapes to near-perfect ripeness levels. Then heavy rains at the end of September—just a few days too early—prevented the grapes from reaching the maturity of great vintages, as in 1998, or caused a slight dilution, as was the case in 1999. In both cases, the wines were "almost" great vintages. It is clear that a period of fine weather in August is of crucial importance, while rain—even heavy rain—during the harvest is not necessarily a handicap.
Château Margaux 1999 stands out for its great finesse, intensity and aromatic complexity. The nose combines great purity and great classicism. On the palate, it first reveals delicacy and suppleness, then softness, richness and density, before finishing with great length, displaying the wine’s true power. An extremely charming Château Margaux—hard to resist today—yet full of surprises. A great success. (February 2025)
Climate
After an early flowering, the summer was hot and sunny, with isolated rainy spells: optimal conditions to the ripening of the grapes, but also to the onset of downy mildew. From 20th August to 10th September, the very dry weather brought the ripening and the concentration of the grapes to exceptional levels; then heavy rains came until the end of September. (The picking began on 22nd September)
Service & tasting
Discover our tips for serving and tasting your wine in the best conditions.
Service & tasting
Discover our tips for serving and tasting your wine in the best conditions.