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.

Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce you to the exquisite 2020 d'Issan, a Bordeaux Blend straight from the prestigious Margaux region of France. This wine is a true masterpiece, crafted with exceptional care and expertise by the renowned d'Issan estate. With a deep, alluring red color that shimmers in the glass, it immediately captivates the eye and prepares you for the sensory journey that awaits.

On the nose, this wine is a symphony of floral and fruity aromas that dance gracefully together. Notes of currants and blackberries tantalize the senses, while a subtle hint of violets and licorice adds a touch of elegance. It is a truly captivating bouquet that draws you in, inviting you to explore further.

As you take your first sip, you will be greeted by a full-bodied wine with a remarkable depth of flavor. The palate is layered with delicious, dense character that unfolds with each sip. Dusty, layered tannins add structure and texture, while maintaining a sense of finesse. It is a rich wine, yet surprisingly light on its feet, never weighing heavy on the palate.

The blend of grape varieties in this wine is a masterstroke. Composed of 55% cabernet sauvignon, 39% merlot, 3% cabernet franc, 2% petit verdot, and 1% malbec, it achieves a harmonious balance that is truly impressive. Each component contributes its unique characteristics, resulting in a wine that is greater than the sum of its parts.

The critics have been unanimous in their praise for the 2020 d'Issan. James Suckling awarded it an outstanding 98 points, describing it as "extremely floral and fruity" with "delicious, dense character." Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also recognized its brilliance, awarding it 94+ points and declaring it "an elegant, perfumed Margaux that's built to age with grace."

Decanter hailed this wine as "lifted on the nose, with purity and freshness on the palate," while Jeff Leve of TheWineCellarInsider.com declared it a "stunningly good Margaux." Jeb Dunnuck praised its "terrific mid-palate density, ripe, velvety tannins, and terrific overall balance," while Vinous described it as a "gorgeous, wonderfully complete wine."

The 2020 d'Issan is a wine that promises to age gracefully for years to come. With its impeccable balance, refined tannins, and vibrant acidity, it has all the elements for long-term aging. It is a wine that will only continue to evolve and delight with each passing year.

In conclusion, the 2020 d'Issan is a wine that showcases the artistry and passion of the d'Issan estate. It is a wine that embodies the elegance and finesse of Margaux, while also displaying a depth and complexity that sets it apart. Whether you savor it now or cellar it for future enjoyment, this wine is sure to leave a lasting impression. Cheers!