Château Margaux’s Pavillon Rouge is the First Growth estate’s second wine, and in 2025 it has drawn notably strong early reviews for depth, texture, and classic Margaux fragrance. The blend is Cabernet Sauvignon–led—**70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, and 4% Cabernet Franc**—and multiple critics note the strict selection, with **Pavillon Rouge representing 28% of the harvest/production** this year (Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate; Jane Anson; Decanter; The Wine Palate).

The best reviews are excellent. **Decanter (96)** calls it “*quite a serious Pavillon*,” emphasizing “*so soft and creamy on the palate*” texture alongside “*a lot of graphite and pencil lead salinity on the finish*.” **Jane Anson (96)** describes it as “*luscious and juicy*,” with “*DNA of the Margaux appellation on display*,” citing **3.68 pH**, **IPT 78**, and a **22 hl/ha** yield. **Jeb Dunnuck (95–97)** goes further, saying it “*has more than a passing resemblance to the Grand Vin*,” noting it is being raised in **60% new barrels**, and reporting **13.9% alcohol** and **pH 3.68**.

Aromatically, critics converge on ripe dark fruit and floral lift. Vinous’ Antonio Galloni (92–94) finds “*succulent red cherry/plum fruit, mocha and new leather*,” while Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (91–93) highlights “*dark berry fruit… anise, licorice and petals*.” The Wine Palate (94–96) adds “*bright black currants and fresh blackberries*” with “*firm, grainy tannins*.”

This is not being positioned as an easy, early bottle. Galloni notes it “*will require cellaring as the tannins are quite imposing*,” and William Kelley similarly calls it “*youthfully structured… tightly wound*,” concluding it “*will reward a bit of patience*.” Harvest dates are well documented: **Merlot began September 8–11, Cabernet Sauvignon September 19, finishing September 29** (Anson; Decanter).