2004 Pavie Macquin
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Tasting notes
Edges of gunsmoke, tobacco and liquorice on the first nose, this feels significantly younger than the 2002 vintage, and you need a little more patience to wait out those drawn-together tannins that are holding the cassis and blueberry fruits in place. The juice and salinity though is already mouthwatering, giving a scrape and a push that both propels you forward and drags you back. These are physical wines in the mouth, which is why they are so exciting. Part of the cool vintages series within this vertical, and a great example of why great terroir can overperform in more challenging years. 80% new oak.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Now fully mature and drinking nicely, the 2004 Saint-Emilion reveals a healthy ruby hue to go with classic Saint-Emilion notes of currants, white truffles, dried tobacco, and cedary herbs. With medium-bodied richness and impressive overall balance, it has solid sweetness of fruit, integrated tannins, and a great finish. This is just a classic, classy expression of this vineyard to enjoy over the coming decade or so.
The 2004 Pavie-Macquin is not especially complex or nuanced, but it is exquisitely delicious and also a fabulous choice for drinking now and over the next few years. Leather, spice, chocolate and licorice fill out the layers effortlessly. More than anything else, the 2004 is a wine of total pleasure.
About the producer
On the hill of Pavie, this property’s 15 hectares of vines neighbour those of Troplong Mondot and Pavie. Under Stéphane Derenoncourt and Nicolas Thienpont, the property was promoted to Premier Grand Cru Classé B status in 2006.