Practically the same scenario as in 1998 was produced in 1999: an exceptional spell of fine weather during August, followed by a beginning of September which took the grapes to near-perfect ripeness levels, then heavy rain at the end of September which, by a few days, prevented the grapes from reaching the ripeness levels of great vintages and, like in 1998, caused a slight dilution. That 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, whereas rain, even heavy rain, during the harvest is not necessarily a handicap. Château Margaux 1999 shows great finesse, intensity and aromatic complexity. The nose has both great purity and great classicism. On the palate, it has firstly delicacy and suppleness, then fatness and density, before finishing with great length, displaying the real power of the wine. An extremely charming Château Margaux which is difficult to resist today, but has not yet finished surprising us. A great success. (October 2018)