This stunning, evolved, dark plum/ruby-hued 2008 reveals aromas of forest floor, sweet black and red currants, licorice and roasted herbs. Classic, elegant and medium to full-bodied, it provides a sexy, complex, intellectual as well as hedonistic turn-on. Drink this delicious Margaux over the next 12-15+ years.

Tasted ex-château and single blind in Southwold. The Brane-Cantenac 2008 continues to show well in bottle after being such a “broody bugger” in barrel. I feel that this nose does not quite have the complexity or intensity of a truly great Brane-Cantenac, since it appears to lack a little vigour on the nose compared to its peers with delicate, understated notes of cedar and a little graphite. The palate has a saline entry with touches of shellfish. It has rather abrasive earthy tannins (typical of Brane-Cantenac) but it displays fine definition towards the finish. It remains somewhat difficult to taste now, but it offers natural charm at this early stage. Tasted January 2012.

Full red. Aromatic nose of raspberry, plum, currant, licorice and menthol lifted by a floral element. Vibrant and light on its feet, with strong but harmonious acidity giving energy and lift to the flavors of currant, fresh herbs and flowers. Dry, classic claret with a note of fresh herbs on the subtly long aftertaste. I'd cellar this for three or four years.

Routine black fruit, refreshing structure and fine-grained mouthfeel. Rather simple flavour profile, especially on the finish. (RH)

70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc. 44.7 hl/ha. Garnet hue, pale at the rim. Fresh and lifted on the nose with a hint of mint. Some sweetness on attack. Polished tannins. Lighter weight and not overly complex, but harmonious. (JL)