Château d'Issan 2022 Margaux (75cl, 14.6%)

Château d'Issan 2022 Margaux is a Third Growth Bordeaux red wine from the Margaux appellation. The 2022 blend is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, 2% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot, vinified in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. It was the first vintage produced in the estate's new vat room, with smaller 20-hectolitre vats for parcel-by-parcel vinification. The nose opens with ripe blackcurrant and black cherry, violets, rose petals and pencil shavings, followed by smoky tobacco, espresso and a mineral thread. The palate is velvety and concentrated, with cassis, licorice, cocoa and a faint orange peel note, supported by ripe, silky tannins. The finish is long and refined, with dark fruit, cedar and dried mushroom earthiness.