2016 Palmer, Margaux 2026 Ex-Chateau Release

The finest vintage I’ve ever tasted from this estate, surpassing the 2009 and 2010, the 2016 Château Palmer is a blend of 47% each of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance Petit Verdot, all of which was brought up in 65% new French oak. This magical effort reveals a saturated purple color as well as a huge nose of crème de cassis, graphite, crushed rocks, and spring flowers, and it develops beautifully with time in the glass. Full-bodied, deep, incredibly concentrated and powerful, it nevertheless just glides over the palate with flawless purity and balance, present, ripe tannins, and a finish that just won’t quit. This is Bordeaux at its most regal and classic. It will be drinkable with just 4-5 years of bottle age and keep for half a century. JD

For some reason, I feel like 2016 is a vintage of Palmer that people are sleeping on. Perhaps the attention‑getter is the rare 2018, or the success across Margaux in 2015 outshines its successor. In time, I might put my money on the 2016 to win the day—no surprise considering the quality of the vintage, and a sentiment echoed by one 100‑point score after another from the major critics. Neal Martin even gives it a passing comparison to the 1983, one of the château’s iconic releases. A wine of remarkable depth and composure, 2016 Palmer is extraordinarily youthful at ten years on, delivering undeniable Margaux character in its luxurious style. For me, it hits all the notes that make this estate treasured by so many dedicated collectors—the reason people light up when that black‑and‑gold label finds its way into any tasting or dinner. It’s not unusual to call a given vintage of Palmer one for the ages, but the concentration, refinement, and typicité here are next level, and it’s going to be thrilling to follow for years to come. This parcel is part of their “10 Years On” release, offered with perfect provenance a decade after the vintage. For those looking for a quintessential Palmer for the cellar, this is Margaux brilliance personified.