The 2008 Pavillon Rouge didn't show quite as well as I had hoped, but is still an elegant, berry-scented, spicy, soft Pavillon Rouge with good depth, sweet tannins, and an attractive finish. It can be drunk now or cellared or 12-15 years.
Second wine. Dark crimson. Rich yet dry and vigorous on the nose. Very sweet start - round and flattering even if without massive tannins. Though they certainly lurk there under the fruit. Lots of spice. Just lacks a little follow through though there is certainly lots of pleasure here for the medium term.
The second wine, the 2008 Pavillon Rouge du Chateau Margaux, represents 47% of the crop (keep in mind that 17% of the total crop was sold off in bulk), and is composed of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, and the rest mostly Petit Verdot with a tiny dollop of Cabernet Franc. It is a beautiful wine exhibiting classic purity along with red and black fruits intermixed with licorice, tobacco leaf, and floral nuances. Sweet, round tannins, and a lovely forward freshness suggest this stunning second wine should drink well young, yet last for 15+ years.
Moderate intensity on the nose, quite earthy, perhaps less exuberant than previous vintages. Dark fruit - touches of boysenberry and wild hedgerow. A faint hint of thyme. The palate has an understated entry, leading to a rounded, softer Pavillon, texturally like Merlot but with more Cabernet flavours: cedar, sous-bois and a touch of tar. Moderated length. It almost has a Pauillac-like austerity towards the finish, which is an attractive virtue but not in the same class as recent vintages. Tasted April 2009