About the Wine

Château Desmirail started as part of the very large Rauzan vineyard, which eventually split off as part of a dowry paid to Jean Desmirail (where it takes its name). This estate has been in the hands of several important Bordeaux families (like Château Malescot St Exupery’s and Château Palmer’s owners) all of which contributed to significant and positive changes.

Since 1980, was acquired by the Lurton family, who have been doing an outstanding job of turning it into a truly top-notch Châteaux. It has become a favorite among Margaux enthusiasts due to its incredible value.

The Lurton family is Bordeaux royalty, this family owns over 20 estates, including 6 classified growths like Brane-Cantenac, and Haut-Bages Libéral.

Château Desmirail covers over 50 acres of vineyards located in different areas of the appellation, with a terroir characterized by deep gravel terroir from the Quaternary period, each of these vineyards contributes a special characteristic to the production of this stunning 3rd growth. The vineyards are placed in Margaux-Cantenac (adjacent to Brane-Cantenac, Rauzan-Ségla, and Palmer) Soussan, Arsac (next to Château du Tertre), and some hectares in Haut-Medoc.

The vineyards are sustainable, and since 2018, they achieved the HEV3 certification. The Lurton family believes “The production of high-quality grapes begins with the soil.” The combination of Margaux’s soil and the expertise of Eric Boissenot is the perfect formula to create this work of art.

2016 was a very outstanding year for Bordeaux. For wine lovers and collectors who are looking for a stunning Bordeaux to cellar, this year is one to look for. Vinous Media blessed this vintage with a stunning 98-point review and said "The 2016s are absolutely remarkable wines. The word that comes to mind, unfortunately so often overused, is balance. In technical terms, the 2016s boast off-the-chart tannins that in many cases exceed those of wines from massive vintages such as 2010. And yet, the best 2016s are absolutely harmonious, with the tannins barely perceptible at all."

Aging: 12 months in French oak barrels.

Tasting Notes: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot. 
See Critical Reviews for detailed tasting notes.

Reviews

Beautiful deep colour tinged with ruby, still young. Very inviting, expressive nose of ripe red fruits, spices and an elegant oaky tone. The palate is mouth-filling and very delicate and the potential of the fruit is nicely showcased. Great length. ~96 Gilbert & Gaillard

This has a super spicy, modern and meaty nose with some dark plum, berry and chocolate, sitting fresh. The palate delivers a firm yet sweet impression with plenty of ripe summer berries, swathed in spicy oak to good effect. A blend of 55 per cent merlot, 40 per cent cabernet sauvignon and five per cent petit verdot. Try from 2023. ~93 James Suckling

Dark ruby ​​garnet, opaque core, subtle lightening of the edges, clear roasted aromas, a hint of caramel, blackberry confit underlaid, some chocolate. Juicy, round and fruity sweetness, integrated tannins, somewhat wide-meshed, while charming and well developed. ~92 Falstaff

The 2016 Desmirail is a bold, powerful wine. The darker side of the appellation comes through in the wine's dark flavor profile and imposing structural profile. Black cherry, smoke, tobacco and licorice run through the 2016. Potent and virile, the 2016 is likely to need a few years to come into its own. Even so, it is impressive today.  ~92 Vinous Media

This shows steeped plum and blackberry fruit flavors inlaid nicely with juniper and alder notes. There's a velvety edge to the finish, which flows nicely as it pulls the fruit and toast together before showing a flicker of warm earth at the very end. Best from 2021 through 2030. ~90 Wine Spectator

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