2013 Kirwan
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Tasting notes
Floral aromatics help make this an enticing 2013, with finely boned tannins and a delicate brambled fruit. Ready to be drunk, but this is enjoyable. Harvest September 27 to October 8, with just 50% 1st wine, after extremely careful sorting, 38hl/h yield. Lower Merlot than usual after the complicated growing season, giving a savoury character. 40% new oak for ageing, Eric Boissenot consultant.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
Tasted blind. Deep garnet. Spirity, stalky nose. Pretty dry, almost elegant but just the wrong side of the ripeness scale, so that the finish is tough. (JH)
The 2013 Kirwan has one of the better sets of aromatics from Margaux with simple blackberry and bilberry scents, plus a tinge of damp earth. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly stringy tannin but good acidity, while the finish shows less under-ripeness than its peers. It does lack length and there is a distracting metallic note on the aftertaste that contradicts the quality of the nose. It is a decent Margaux, if not performing as well as I was hoping from barrel.
About the producer
Philippe Delfaut has been integral to the transformation of Ch. Kirwan, taking an estate known for its lavish, Michel-Rolland style and bringing more classicism – with increased precision in the vineyard and winery.