Description
The Château Pavie Macquin 1996 is a wine from Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France, produced by an estate renowned for its focus on terroir-driven, expressive wines. Though the 1996 vintage was more celebrated on the Left Bank due to favorable conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon, the Right Bank, with its Merlot-dominated blends, also produced wines of finesse and structure, particularly from estates like Pavie Macquin, known for meticulous vineyard management.
Wine Overview
Château Pavie Macquin is classified as a Premier Grand Cru Classé (B) and is known for its concentrated and age-worthy wines. The 1996 vintage is a blend of:
Merlot (dominant): Provides richness, fruitiness, and softness.
Cabernet Franc: Adds aromatic complexity and freshness.
Cabernet Sauvignon: Contributes structure and tannins.
Vintage Characteristics
The 1996 growing season in Bordeaux was marked by a dry and warm summer, with excellent harvest conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon, particularly on the Left Bank. On the Right Bank, producers like Pavie Macquin, with their clay and limestone terroirs, managed to achieve ripeness and balance, resulting in wines with elegance and aging potential.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep ruby with garnet highlights, showing some maturity.
Aroma: A complex bouquet of blackberries, cherries, and plums, layered with notes of cedar, tobacco, and earth. Tertiary aromas of leather, dried herbs, and truffles enhance its depth.
Palate: Medium to full-bodied with smooth, integrated tannins and balanced acidity. Flavors of dark fruits, such as blackcurrants and figs, are complemented by hints of mocha, graphite, and a subtle minerality characteristic of Saint-Émilion’s limestone soils.
Finish: Long and refined, with lingering notes of fruit, spice, and earthy nuances.
Drinking Window
As of 2025, the Château Pavie Macquin 1996 is fully mature and offers a harmonious balance of primary fruit and tertiary characteristics. It is at or near its peak and is best consumed within the next 3–5 years if stored properly.
Food Pairing
The 1996 Pavie Macquin pairs beautifully with:
Grilled or roasted lamb with rosemary and garlic.
Braised beef or veal dishes.
Wild mushroom risotto or pasta with truffle oil.
Aged cheeses, such as Comté, Gruyère, or aged Manchego.
Serving Recommendations
Decanting: Decant gently for about 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the wine to open up and release its mature aromas.
Serving Temperature: Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to fully enjoy its complexity and balance.
Conclusion
The Château Pavie Macquin 1996 is an elegant and mature wine that showcases the finesse of Saint-Émilion in a vintage dominated by Left Bank successes. It offers a refined expression of its terroir and a delightful drinking experience for those who appreciate the complexity of aged Bordeaux wines.