France · Bordeaux

Pavillon Rouge

Pavillon Rouge du Château Margaux is the second wine of Château Margaux, one of Bordeaux's five first growths. Produced since the early 20th century and formalized as a distinct commercial label under the stewardship of André Mentzelopoulos (who acquired Margaux in 1977), Pavillon Rouge represents the lots, barrels, and younger vine selections not deemed worthy of the grand vin's standards. The wine is produced entirely from Margaux's own 87-hectare vineyard of first-growth Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant clay and gravel, making it categorically different from second wines made from purchased fruit or declassified appellation wine. At auction, Pavillon Rouge averages $279 per bottle across 165 lots — an extraordinarily high price for a second wine, reflecting the first-growth origination and the product's exclusivity. Pavillon Rouge commands more per bottle than many classified châteaux grand vins: the Margaux terroir connection is the primary price driver. Top vintages — 2009, 2010, 2015, 2016 — fetch $400–700 per bottle at auction, competing with 2nd and 3rd growth grand vins in price. The database entry labels the wine as 'Bordeaux Superieur' which may reflect a classification quirk rather than actual production. Pavillon Rouge should not be confused with Pavillon Blanc, the estate's white wine. The second wine occupies an unusual market position: premium to virtually all classified red Bordeaux outside the first growths, while representing a 'value' entry into Margaux terroir.