The second wine of Chateau Margaux came about partly due to misfortune - when an attack of phylloxera decimated the vineyards, necessitating a replanting of the majority of their vineyards. The lack of grapes eliminated the possibility of a First Growth Quality wine and led to the production of their second wine - the Pavillon Rouge de Chateau Margaux, the first official vintage of which was released in 1906. Renowned as a sterling example of a second wine, the 2016 has been hailed as a particularly superb vintage. Medium-bodied, silky, intense and tannic, it continues its impressive trajectory year upon year.

Château Figeac is a wine estate that had a very long history. It was once part of the Cheval Blanc estate, whichs soils was well known to be two-thirds of gravel, allowing Cab Sauv, Cab Franc and Merlot to grow flourishingly in the area. The 2010 Figeac, had a beautiful complexity to enjoy now or the longevity to cellar for those who prefers. Wine will benefit from decanting.

Originated from the same plots and made with the same winemaking techniques as the first label, La Parde Haut-Bailly is subject to the same draconian selection controls. Over time, it has developed its own personality, displaying a pleasant silky texture on the palate and achieving a style of elegance and refinement . Although its softness and forward aroma mean it can be drunk sooner than Chateau Haut-Bailly, it also has good aging potential.

The wine comes with the tag of ''second wine'' from the esteemed Chateau Margaux, though it''s made with the intent to stand on its own two feet. The blend tends to sit around two thirds Cabernet Sauvignon and one third Merlot, but a seasoning of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc is essential for the fine detail of perfume and flavours expected from this wine. 2010 sees a wine of grace and purity - it''s fruit dominant and supple, fleshy and ample, cuddly and almost nourishing to drink. A wine for admiring and comparing to its great parent too.