Pavillon Rouge de Chateau Margaux 2005 (357ml). Started with some dark cherries and leather on the nose. Every sip I take, the wine evolves on the tongue, it develops from red fruit to dark fruit. Hints of spices, green pepper and vanilla towards the end. As a rather good vintage in the 2000s, the acidity has a bite to it (medium +), while tannins are smooth as a 7 years old wine. It is a balanced wine. As a half bottle, although you can drink it now, it has potential for aging.

Pavillon Rouge de Chateau Margaux 2005

Ratings: RP 91 / WS 92-94

Robert Parker, April 2006:
The best second wine yet made by Chateau Margaux is undoubtedly the 2005 Pavillon Rouge du Chateau Margaux, a blend of nearly 50% Merlot and the rest primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of Petit Verdot. Extremely rich in color, flesh, fruit, and glycerin, this amazingly opulent, full-bodied effort tips the scales at 14% alcohol … a full degree higher than its grander sibling. Serious consumers should consider purchasing this gorgeous offering as it is probably better than just about any Chateau Margaux produced between 1963 and 1977. It should drink well for 15 or more years.