At a glance

Producer

Chateau d'Issan

Region

Margaux, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$90-$140

Tasting profile

Aromas of blackcurrant, cedar, graphite with firm tannins and deep dark fruit; fresh acidity enlivening the palate

Evolution: Over next 5-7 years will develop tertiary aromas of truffle, forest floor, leather; tannins will soften and integrate

At peak: Rich complexity with layered dark fruit, mineral notes, and velvety tannin texture lending elegance and persistence

Structure

Acidity

Balanced, fresh acidity supporting long aging

Tannins

Firm, well-structured tannins typical of Margaux

Alcohol

13.5%-14%

Aging potential

25-35 years from vintage, exceptional vintage and estate

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2048

Optimal window

2024 to 2051

Current status

Approaching early maturity with significant potential ahead

Current condition

Still developing tannins and complexity; best to cellar short-term before peak drinking

Chateau d'Issan Margaux 2016 is a classic top Margaux with a structure designed for long aging. The 2016 vintage’s excellent growing conditions and ripe tannins support an extended drinking window typically 25-35 years. Peak drinking starts in the mid-2020s as tannins soften, reaching a plateau of complexity and balance between 2027-2035.

Food pairing

Pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, beef dishes, game birds, mushroom risotto, and aged hard cheeses like Comté or Parmesan.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To allow the firm tannins to soften and let the complex aromas open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Chateau d'Issan employs sustainable viticulture practices including controlled pesticide use, cover cropping, water conservation, and partial solar energy utilization

Chateau d'Issan has made meaningful strides in sustainability focusing on environmental balance and resource preservation. While not fully organic or biodynamic, their certified sustainable farming and partial renewable energy infrastructure reduce environmental impact. Shipping the wine internationally adds to carbon output, but the estate remains committed to improving practices.