Introduction
The 2018 Château Le Coteau is a classic Margaux from Bordeaux, crafted by one of the few remaining family-owned estates in the appellation. Known for its elegant and aromatic style, Château Le Coteau embodies the finesse, structure, and complexity that Margaux wines are celebrated for. This vintage, marked by warm weather and ideal ripening conditions, showcases a harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, along with a touch of Petit Verdot, expressing the unique terroir of Margaux.

Terrior
Margaux, situated on the left bank of the Gironde River, has a terroir that combines gravelly soils with limestone and clay, allowing excellent drainage and promoting the development of deep root systems. This soil structure is ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon, which thrives in well-drained, heat-retaining gravel. The warm 2018 vintage provided ideal conditions for ripening, resulting in concentrated flavors, fine tannins, and an aromatic depth in the wines. Château Le Coteau’s vineyards are positioned to capture both the warmth and cooling breezes from the river, which help retain balance and freshness.

Appearance
Deep garnet with a slightly purple rim, showing medium-high viscosity in the glass, hinting at the wine's concentration and aging potential.

Nose
The nose is elegant and complex, with aromas of blackcurrant, black cherry, and plum. Floral notes of violet emerge, alongside nuances of graphite, cedar, and cigar box, which are characteristic of Margaux wines. Subtle undertones of mocha and vanilla from oak aging add depth and sophistication to the bouquet.

Palate
On the palate, Château Le Coteau is medium to full-bodied, with refined tannins and a polished texture. The primary flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry, and ripe plum are layered with earthy notes of graphite and tobacco. A well-integrated acidity lifts the fruit, balancing the wine’s richness and giving it elegance. The oak influence is present but subtle, contributing hints of spice, cocoa, and toasted vanilla without overwhelming the fruit.

Finish
The finish is long and lingering, with fine tannins and persistent notes of dark fruit, cedar, and a touch of minerality. The wine’s structure and balance indicate its potential for aging, as the flavors will continue to evolve and integrate over the next decade or more.

Overall Impression
The 2018 Château Le Coteau Margaux is a graceful and well-structured wine that exemplifies the elegance of the Margaux appellation. With its aromatic complexity, polished tannins, and refined balance, this wine will appeal to those who appreciate classic Bordeaux. It is drinking beautifully now but has the potential to age gracefully for another 10-15 years, making it an excellent addition to any cellar.

Published Rankings
Robert Parker Rating: 90
Decanter Ranking: 92

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: Château Le Coteau
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: France
Region: Bordeaux, Margaux
Grape Varietals: Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with a small percentage of Petit Verdot
Vintage: 2018
Wine Style: Red, Medium to Full-Bodied
Winemaking Techniques: Traditional Bordeaux winemaking; aged in French oak barrels, with a portion being new oak
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork