The 2006 Pavillon Blanc du Chateau Margaux has always been one of the pinnacle white releases from this First Growth and at ten years of age, I have no reason to change my mind. It has an exquisite bouquet of lemon curd, orange scents and a touch of praline that is very delineated and focused. The palate exhibits fine balance with hints of crème fraiche, almond and even a cheeky dab of marzipan. Funnily enough, it is difficult imagining that this is 100% Sauvignon Blanc and in fact, there is something almost Burgundy-like about this Pavillon Blanc (as I suggested in my barrel tasting note). Irrespective of origin, what it constitutes is a damn glorious white Bordeaux that comes highly recommended. So much so, I would drink this now rather than later. Tasted January 2016.

Stone, apple, pineapple and honey aromas follow through to lemon curd and chalk character. Full-bodied, with a lanolin and apple tart flavor. Thick and a little rustic now, but very interesting and stylish. Needs time. Best after 2010.

A great Pavillon Blanc, fine, rich and balanced. From its citrus opening to the final burst of crisp, ripe fruit, this shows the great style of white Bordeaux in 2006. Spice, honey, melon and toast all mingle harmoniously.

90—92 Barrel sample. This is one of the best Pavillon Blancs for years, a sign of the quality of the Sauvignon Blanc in 2006. It combines tropical richness and denseness (it is 15% alcohol) with pink grapefruit acidity – a great mix which works well here.