Château Palmer 2020 — liquorice, crayon and cigar box. Jane Anson gave it 97 points for its “understated power”.
Château Palmer’s 55 hectares sit on sandy-gravelly soils overlooking the Gironde estuary, and some of those vines are over seventy years old — old-vine fruit that concentrates naturally and gives the wine its density without weight. It is a Third Growth by the 1855 reckoning and a First Growth by most people’s palates.
The 2020 is 48% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot, made under technical director Thomas Duroux. It combines grip and freshness with striking depth, and Jane Anson awarded it 97 points, praising its “understated power” and “signature Palmer identity”.
Serve with: beef, lamb, game or poultry. Drink 2025–2050 and beyond.
| Producer | Château Palmer |
| Classification | Third Growth, 1855 Classification |
| Appellation | Margaux, Bordeaux |
| Vintage | 2020 |
| Blend | 48% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot |
| Vineyard | 55 hectares, sandy-gravelly soils; some vines over 70 years old |
| Technical Director | Thomas Duroux |
| Critic Score | 97 points, Jane Anson |
| Drinking Window | 2025–2050+ |
| Bottle Size | 75cl |
2020 is the more Merlot-led of the two and is drinking earlier, from 2025. The 2022 is Cabernet-dominant and wants until 2028.
The 1855 ranking was based on price at the time and has never been revised for the Médoc. Palmer has performed at First Growth level for decades, and the market prices it accordingly.
Yes if opening now — two to three hours. It unfolds slowly, which is part of its character.
Instant Delivery — Greater London, 30–45 minutes
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Gift Packaging — available on same day, next day and 1–2 day services
Please drink responsibly. You must be 18 or over to purchase alcohol. drinkaware.co.uk
