The 2017 Cantenac Brown has really come together nicely. The typically overt Cantenac Brown style is present in a round, supple Margaux that exudes textural richness and raciness. Dark cherry, spice, chocolate and licorice all flesh out in this wonderfully inviting, supple Margaux, with pretty savory notes that add freshness and energy. This understated wine is all class.

The 2017 Cantenac Brown has a clean and precise bouquet, one of the most sophisticated that I came across within the Margaux appellation in this vintage. There is wonderful detail and precision here. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, yet there is real backbone and tension lent by a superb line of acidity. There is classicism and modernity combined completing, dare I say, one of the most underrated Margaux wines in this vintage. Superb.

This is a very pretty cabernet sauvignon with currants, raspberries and blueberries. Bright and vivid. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a fresh and clean finish. - jamessuckling.com, April 2018

With a larger proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon this year, the blend is 67% Cabernet Sauvignon and 33% Merlot. Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 Cantenac Brown leaps from the glass with exuberant notes of cassis, warm plums and black forest cake with touches of violets, dark chocolate, cloves and cigar box plus a waft of lavender. The palate is medium-bodied and firm with fine-grained tannins and tons of freshness, finishing with plenty of black fruit and perfumed layers.

A bright savory streak leads off here, offering fresh cassis and bitter plum fruit flavors. A tangy mineral note runs through the finish. A pure and elegant wine that should fill out a bit more with the élevage. - James Molesworth, winespectator.com, April 2018

Tasted blind. Deep ruby. Bright blue fruit and incense on the nose. Dark-fruited on the palate – good energy and purity here. Tangy but not overridden by acidity, this is a compact and vibrant style finding the energy and florality typical of its region. Well made. (TP)

Deep greyish crimson. Deeply inviting aroma of pure cedary cassis and just a touch of vanilla. Classic bordeaux flavours on the palate, with dark fruit, a hint of graphite and a little oak sweetness. Lightish, fresh and harmonious, Light tannins, but a little bit dilute and herbaceous on the finish. (JH)