The appellation of Margaux, made formidably famous by its premier cru, Château Margaux, is nestled further south in the Médoc than the other classic appellations of the left bank. The wines of this appellation, although boasting lovely concentration and weight, are known for their incredible elegance, perfume and complex nuance that becomes even better with time in the bottle. Today’s offer hails from a careful selection of vines and one particular parcel rests on Margaux’s most coveted spot, the Plateau du Moulin. As I previously mentioned, it is here that Château des Eyrins’ pyramid of vines are actually surrounded on two sides by the vines of Château Margaux.

The quality-conscious husband-wife team, Julie Médeville and Xavier Gonet purchased this estate in 2008 from Eric Grangerou whose family served as cellarmasters to Château Margaux for three generations. Julie and Xavier have pieced together tiny properties of special significance throughout Bordeaux over the past several years and their prestige only continues to rise. Although relatively new to the wine world as a husband-wife team, they each come from a rich line of vignerons and winemakers. Crafting world-class wine could be said to be part of their genetic makeup. Julie descends from the Château Gilette clan, famous with Sauternes lovers around the world, while Xavier finds his roots among the growers of Champagne’s famous Le Mesnil. It seems that whatever project they put their passion towards, the result is always incredible and today’s example is no exception.

The 2011 Château des Eyrins exhibits a dark crimson core with light garnet reflections on the rim. The nose exudes pure and classic Bordeaux aromas of red and blackcurrants, black plum, fresh violets, wet herbs and a hint of thyme intertwined with dried leather, cigar box, pencil lead, crushed gravel, cacao nibs, cedar and a beautifully subtle touch of new oak in the background. The palate has profound elegance, offers flavors consistent with the nose and enjoys a touch more fruit, all of which is driven by earth, cacao and leather. This classic left bank Bordeaux, which is in no way modern, is just beginning to soften up. Though delicious now, this wine has a long life ahead of it and will reach an even sweeter spot in 4-5 years; however, this wine could easily handle 10-15 years in the cellar if kept properly. If consuming now, the wine needs plenty of air and should spend at least 20-30 minutes in a decanter to unfold, although an hour is optimal. This wine will show best in Bordeaux stems at 60-65 degrees. For the quintessential left bank Bordeaux pairing, prepare this traditional Bordelaise sauce and serve it over grilled lamb shanks. Cheers.