At a glance

Producer

Château Malescot Saint-Exupéry

Region

Margaux, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot (classic Bordeaux blend)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$80-$120

Tasting profile

Red cassis, black cherry, cedar, graphite, subtle tobacco leaf notes

Evolution: Will gain tertiary complexity with leather, forest floor, dried herbs, and minerality

At peak: Rich layers of dark fruit, silky tannins, integrated oak, long finish

Structure

Acidity

Balanced, medium-plus, fresh Bordeaux style

Tannins

Firm but refined, medium-plus to high

Alcohol

13.5% ABV

Aging potential

25-40 years, depending on storage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2060

Optimal window

2022 to 2063

Current status

Approaching first peak maturity

Current condition

Still developing, tannins resolving, fruit fresh and concentrated

The 2016 vintage in Margaux is classic with a good balance of fruit, acid, and tannin structure supporting 25+ years of aging, reaching a peak 9-14 years post vintage.

Food pairing

Perfect with roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, game birds, mushroom risotto, and aged hard cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — Softens tannins and opens aromas for optimal expression

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Use of cover crops, reduced phytochemicals, modern equipment for water saving, energy-efficient bottling line

Château Malescot Saint-Exupéry follows Bordeaux sustainable practices focusing on environmental stewardship, but international trade and lack of organic certification moderate overall score.