As the vertical heads towards more recent vintages, the structure of the wines begins to deepen, and the work that the team has done onelongaing the is evident. 2008 was a classic, balanced year and this is understated in its dark berry and leafy character, thoroughly charming with plenty of rosebud and peony appellation typicity. Harvest September 30 to 8 October, Jacques Boissenot consultant. 50% new oak for ageing.

A generous, well-rounded Margaux, expansive through the mid-palate but finishing a little short. Again, this shows that 2008 is a good - but not great - vintage, and really one where the full pleasure of drinking is to be taken now and over the next decade. The tannins are beautifully soft, and the cassis and tobacco flavours are still vibrant, floating upwards without being spiky. Read more at https://www.decanter.com/wine-reviews/france/bordeaux/chateau-giscours-margaux-3eme-cru-classe-2008-18393#twbMrDpmFb40f87w.99

Tasted at the Château Giscours vertical, the 2008 Château Giscours is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot picked between September 30 and October 1. The bouquet is very well defined with ebullient red berry fruit mixed with orange peel and cedar aromas. There is something that distantly echoes a Côte de Beaune! Perhaps the purity on offer here? The palate is very well balanced with a keen line of acidity, very fine tannins and ample freshness. I loved this Giscours from barrel and it is now living up to my expectations. The terroir shines through on this wine - true Margaux. This is an excellent wine from winemaker Alexandre Van Beek. Tasted June 2015.- NM