2024 Brane Cantenac
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Tasting notes
This is the first vintage of Brane-Cantenac to be produced in the property’s new cellar and vat room – and the results are particularly impressive. The nose is awash with notes of ripe blueberry and pencil lead. The most remarkable aspect of their 2024 is the freshness on the palate, something Henri Lurton attributed to cool nights in July and August – producing a wine with the lowest pH ever here (3.53). The finish is especially long, shaped by chalky fine tannins that gradually melt away. The blend contains 11.3% press wine and is being aged in 80% new oak (a slightly lower portion than normal). 12.6% alcohol. Blend: 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc
Critic scores
Average Score
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux
More reviews and scores
The Grand Vin is based on 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Franc that included 11.3% of press, saw malolactic fermentation in barrel, and will spend 18 months in 80% new barrels. Its deeper ruby/purple hue is followed by a beautifully pure, layered, elegant, and medium-bodied Margaux that has both red and blue fruits, some violet, spicy wood, and cedar pencil nuances, fine, polished tannins, and outstanding length. This hit 12.6% alcohol with a pH of 3.53.
A blend of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc, the 2024 Brane-Cantenac exhibits aromas of sweet berries, vanilla pod and toasty new oak, followed by a medium-bodied, fleshy and youthfully tannic palate that's lent a creamy, lactic quality by its malolactic fermentation in new barrels.
About the producer
Château Brane-Cantenac has been a consistent performer in the Margaux wine appellation since Henri Lurton took over the property, but thanks to replanting and investment in the last decade, quality has seen another sharp upswing.