This is a solid Margaux with blackberries, blackcurrants and undertones of fresh tobacco and a wet earth. It's full and layered with beautiful energy and structure. Tight at the end, as it should be.

The 2019 Marquis de Terme is a rich, heady wine. Dark red/black fruit, chocolate, new leather, spice, menthol, licorice and spice open as this succulent, flamboyant Margaux shows off its personality. This is an especially dense, packed style. Pretty, floral, blood orange and spice overtones build as this super-charming Margaux opens in the glass. There's real depth and substance here, not to mention tons of energy. Impressive.

Aromas of rich black fruits, cherry preserve and pencil shavings introduce the 2019 Marquis de Terme, a medium to full-bodied, rich and fleshy wine with a broad attack that segues into an ample mid-palate framed by ripe but youthfully assertive tannins. This is a muscular, rather chunky Margaux that will reward a bit of bottle age and which, with time, may make my score seem conservative. This is an evolving estate, as fully 25% of its vineyards have been replanted since 2009. Cabernet on rich soils between Labegorce and Chateau Margaux represents the core of the blend.

Features cherry and black currant puree notes with some inner freshness, while black tea, alder and violet hints form a pretty backdrop. Nice steady finish, too. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot.