1990 Branaire Ducru
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Tasting notes
The 1990 Branaire-Ducru is a vintage that, strangely, I had not encountered before. It has an attractive nose of black fruit tinged with peppermint, well-defined considering the warmth of the growing season, with a hint of aniseed. The palate has moved decidedly into its secondary phase, veering slightly towards more red fruit, mint and juniper. Maybe there is a soupçon of Brettanomyces here – not unusual in this vintage. Yet there is adequate freshness to keep this Saint-Julien on its toes.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Notes of menthol, raspberries, chocolate, crushed rock, and a notion of flowers emerge from this medium-bodied 1990. While neither as concentrated nor ageworthy as most Branaires made in the 21st century, it is an attractive, soft, elegant wine that should drink well for 5-6 years. Release price: ($320.00/case)
Sleek and pretty, with floral, mint and plum aromas and flavors and lovely, silky tannins. Drink after 1997. 20,000 cases made. James Suckling,Wine Spectator 1993.
About the producer
This Fourth Growth estate, just a stone’s throw from the wide expanse of the Gironde estuary, has been revitalised under the stewardship of former banker and businessman Patrick Maroteaux, who purchased the property in 1988.