This largely forgotten vintage seems to have turned the corner in the last year or two. Because of strict selections made at the top chateaux, the wines always had density, but the level of tannin was frequently too high, and the type of tannin was more green and astringent. Chateau Margaux’s 1994 has always been one of the candidates for the “wine of the vintage.” The wine still has a dense plum/purple color and a big, sweet nose of black fruits intermixed with licorice, camphor, vanilla, and a hint of flowers. The wine is dense and powerful, but the tannins have softened and do not seem as hard and intrusive as they did in the late nineties. This wine will last for decades and hopefully become even more seamless, although it is hard to believe all the tannin will gradually dissipate. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2025. Last tasted, 10/02.

Very good bright red-ruby color. Sappy, very floral nose hints at toasty oak. Sweet, supple. smooth and oaks in the mouth. A very consistent though fairly tannic wine without the grip or structure of the '95. In fact, tasted after the '95, this seemed much oakier and even a bit monolithic.

Poured at the chateau by Paul Pontallier whilst tasting his 2009, this is the first time I have tasted this particular off vintage. The nose is intriguing: very open with a touch of mulch, graphite, mint and crushed flowers, very “old school”...hints of juniper. It is very well balanced and fresh, quite crisp with slight hints of undergrowth and tar. It trails off a little towards the finish, but maintains good balance. It is a little sharp and a little dry on the finish, but is drinking perfectly now. It deserves some lamb to go with it. Tasted November 2011.