Chateau d’Issan is located in the center of the Margaux appellation and rated as a third growth in the official Bordeaux Classification of 1855. Mild weather, moderated by proximity to the sea and the Gironde Estuary, provides ideal conditions for vine growth. The vines are, on average, 35 years old. The estate has 44 hectares of vines in Margaux, 5 in Haut-Medoc and 10 in Bordeaux Superieur.

Chateau d’Issan has a long history dating back to the 12th century when it was a fiefdom with the name of La Mothe-Cantenac. It already had an established reputation long before the 1855 classification, reportedly served at the wedding of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henri Plantagenet, future King of England, on 18th May 1152.

The estate has been handed down from generation to generation through inheritance and marriage until from 1575 onwards, it has been owned by five generations of the Essenault family who contracted their name and renamed the property “Issan”.

Chateau d’Issan expresses the exquisite bouquet so characteristic of Margaux, and stands out for its suppleness, subtlety, elegance and long aging potential.

The wine is made from the old vines in the Chateau d’Issan enclosure in the middle of the Margaux appellation. The soil is mainly comprised of surface gravel on a clay subsoil, contributing to optimal ripeness and freshness in the estate’s two grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The wine is aged in barrels for 16 to 18 months, half of which are new.

The 2016 d'Issan is a captivating Bordeaux Blend that hails from the renowned Margaux region in France. This red wine exemplifies the elegance and finesse that Bordeaux is known for, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the d'Issan producer. With a deep, garnet-purple color, this wine is visually striking and sets the stage for the sensory journey that awaits.

On the nose, the 2016 d'Issan immediately captivates with its bright and precise aromas. Floral notes dance alongside blackcurrant, creating a harmonious bouquet that is both enticing and sophisticated. As the wine unfolds on the palate, it reveals a full-bodied and tightly woven structure. Creamy textures grace the mouth, while polished tannins make a lasting impression that lingers for minutes on the palate. The warmth and intensity of this wine are undeniable, offering a truly memorable tasting experience.

Prominent wine critic James Suckling awarded this vintage an impressive score of 96 points, noting its potential for further development with four to five years of aging. The wine already possesses a remarkable beauty, showcasing its well-integrated flavors and impeccable balance. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also recognized the excellence of the 2016 d'Issan, awarding it a score of 94+. Lisa Perrotti-Brown praised its vibrant black cherries and blackcurrants, as well as its rock-solid, grainy frame and long savory finish.

Wine Enthusiast awarded this wine 96 points, highlighting its austere structure and firm tannins that gradually reveal an attractive black-currant flavor and ample acidity. The publication suggests enjoying this wine after 2029 to fully appreciate its potential. Jeff Leve, from The Wine Cellar Insider, describes the wine as a terrific Margaux, showcasing earthy, wet forest aromatics, truffle, dark cherries, and herbs. He recommends cellaring this wine for 7-9 years to allow it to reach its peak, with an expected drinking window of 15-20 years or longer.

Vinous awarded the 2016 d'Issan a score of 92, noting its bold and succulent character. Dark cherry, iron, smoke, tobacco, leather, and dried rose petal intermingle effortlessly, creating a supple and easygoing Margaux. Antonio Galloni suggests giving this wine a few more years in the bottle to see how it evolves and gains complexity.

Renowned wine critic Jeb Dunnuck praises the 2016 Château d'Issan, awarding it a score of 94. Dunnuck describes the wine as a beautiful and elegant expression of the vintage, with a beautiful perfume of blue fruits such as cassis and blueberries. He notes the integrated acidity, terrific mid-palate, and perfect balance, recommending 4-5 years of bottle aging to fully appreciate its potential.

Decanter awarded the 2016 d'Issan an outstanding score of 97 points, highlighting its tight and closed nature that will ultimately power out of the gate in five or six years. The wine exhibits depth, persistency, precision, and balance, with layers of flavors that include liquorice, cinnamon, and black chocolate. Decanter suggests noting this wine down for the future, as it promises a long and fruitful life ahead.

Overall, the 2016 d'Issan is a wine of exceptional quality and character. Its impressive scores from esteemed critics, combined with its captivating aromas and flavors, make it a true gem from the Margaux region. This wine is a testament to the artistry and dedication of the d'Issan producer, and it is sure to bring joy and pleasure to wine enthusiasts for years to come.