2023 Chateau Brane-Cantenac 2eme Cru Classe, Margaux

This shows very pretty fruit and ultra-fine tannins that have an almost al-dente sense to them. It has a medium to full body, fine tannins and a fresh, vivid finish. The tannin quality is exceptional.

The 2023 Brane-Cantenac is a sensual silky wine. There's plenty of depth and structure behind that but the first impression is most definitely one of elegance. Crushed flowers spice and dried herbs meld into a core of super-expressive dark red-toned fruit. The 100% new oak is impeccably balanced within the wine’s frame. Brane-Cantenac remains one of the best relative values in Bordeaux or anywhere for that matter. This is a fine effort from proprietor Henri Lurton and his team. Tasted two times. 2033-2063

The 2023 Brane-Cantenac was picked from September 4 to October 2 at 45.7hL/ha with the highest IPT (Indice de Polyphénols Totaux a measurement of tannin) ever with respect to the Merlot which underwent some saignée in tank. Matured entirely in new oak it has wonderful delineation on the nose quite floral with pressed violets infusing the lifted black fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with a silky-smooth entry and a silver bead of acidity. Pure black fruit infused with graphite lends this Pauillac-like attributes sustained on the finish as usual. This is a very classical Brane-Cantenac— a worthy follow-up to the 2022.

The 2023 Brane-Cantenac is a blend of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon 20% Merlot (which saw some saignée) 1% Cabernet Franc 1% Carmenère and 1% Petit Verdot and it completed its malolactic fermentation in barrels as has been the rule at this estate since the 1990s. Offering up aromas of dark cherries cassis and spices framed by creamy new oak it's medium to full-bodied rich and fleshy with a creamy core of fruit and a long gently lactic finish.