2021 Marquis de Terme
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Tasting notes
The fruit came in from September 22 to October 15, harvest dates that reflect how they were able to hold on until the weather improved, and while this is lighter in texture than many, it is a lovely wine and is in a sweet spot even as it hits five years old - would definitely suggest drinking in the next decade. Grated ginger, baking spice, goes long on floral aromatics, cherry wood, cedar, sandalwood, violet, good. Laurent David estate director, Sénéclauze family owners. 50% new oak for ageing. Julien Viaud of Rolland & Associés winemaking consultant.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Tom Parker MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Tasted blind. Dark, shaded crimson. Reasonably intense nose. A bit bloody, with yeast extract on the nose and severe on the palate. Very drying finish. (JR)
This estate continues to make progress, and the 2021 Château Marquis De Terme is well worth seeking out. Ripe darker currants as well as tobacco leaf, iron, violets, and classy oak all show in its aromatics, and it hits the palate with a beautifully balanced, medium-bodied, elegant profile with fine-grained tannins. Older vintages have always had a rustic edge, but this is pure, polished, and seamless, with the class to offer pleasure today yet evolve for two decades if well stored. The blend is 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot.
The 2021 Marquis de Terme is a little reticent on the nose, unfolding with blackberry and briar scents, a touch of crushed violet and melted tar. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins and moderate depth, marine-influence with light seaweed and black pepper notes toward the Pauillac-like finish. Fine, but quite a serious Margaux this; I am inclined to mature it for several years in bottle.
About the producer
This Fourth Growth estate has been owned by the same family (the Sénéclauzes) since 1936. Over the last 25 years, later picking, a higher level of sorting and modern winemaking has fine-tuned the quality.