Chteau d’Issanis a castle andwineryin theMargauxappellationof theBordeauxregion ofFrance. The wine produced here was classified as one of fourteenTroisimes Crus(Third Growths) in the historicBordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855. Thewineryis under the proprietorship ofEmmanuel Cruse, of theCruse family.[1]In February 2013, 50% of the estate was purchased by Jacky Lorenzetti, who also ownsChteau PdesclauxinPauillac& Chateau Lilian Ladouys inSaint-Estphe.[2]

Thevineyardabuts other Margaux chteaux, includingChteau PalmerandChteau Margauxitself, in separate lots totalling 41 hectares (100 acres). Thegrape varietiescultivated are 62%Cabernet Sauvignon, 38%Merlot.

97 pointsJames SucklingFresh currants and raspberries pop out of the glass, together with oranges and cedar. Such purity of fruit in the nose. Full-bodied, yet so refined and vertical. It goes deep and long with tight, compressed tannins that are pure and exciting. Really tight and focused. Precise. Try after 2026.

94-96 pointsWine AdvocateDeep garnet-purple in color, the 2019 D’Issan soars out of the glass with expressive scents of baked red currants, warm cassis and black cherry compote with hints of powdered cinnamon, potpourri, Provence herbs and aniseed plus a waft of fallen leaves. The medium-bodied palate is elegantly played with bags of fresh, vibrant black and red berry flavors and a firm line of ripe, grainy tannins, finishing with an invigorating lift.

95 pointsJeb DunnuckPure cassis, graphite, violets, damp earth, and chocolate notes all emerge from the 2019 Chteau D’Issan, a richer, medium to full-bodied, powerful Margaux. It develops a gorgeous sense of minerality with time in the glass, has plenty of mid-palate oomph, integrated oak, and just terrific overall balance. It’s a stunning success in the vintage in Margaux, which was one of the more challenging in the vintage. This will round into form with just 4-5 years of bottle age and cruise for two decades or more. Bravo.

95 pointsVinousThe 2019 d’Issan was picked from September 25 to October 11 and matured in 50% new oak. This clearly has more dimension on the nose, offering well-defined blackberry and raspberry fruit; pencil shavings and undergrowth scents emerge with time. The harmonious palate is very well balanced, with pliant tannins, perfectly judged acidity, and an engaging build in the mouth. Yes, this has put on a bit of weight during its time in barrel, and it should give 30 to 40 years of drinking pleasure. Excellent.