90/91

Stephen Tanzer

Vinous

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.

92

Robert M. Parker, Jr.

Robert Parker/Wine Advocate

Since 1978 there have been only two first-growths (or two of the so-called "big eight" of Bordeaux) that have been consistently excellent to superb - Chateau Haut-Brion and Chateau Margaux. Margaux's admirable consistency is well-displayed in the 1993-95 wines. Chateau Margaux was one of the last estates to bottle their 1994 (September, 1996), hoping to soften the vintage's high, hard tannin level. The wine has turned out to be a classic, long-lived Margaux. The opaque purple color is followed by this estate's tell-tale aromas of flowers, blackcurrants, licorice, and smoky oak. This dense, powerful, closed wine is a true vin de gard. It needs a decade of cellaring, but it should last for 25-35 years. Readers may find this wine reminiscent of the 1988, only riper and more powerful. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2030.