2023 Brane Cantenac
Buying options
Tasting notes
This is full of fresh blackcurrant and dark forest fruit, with a hint of smoke and a lovely, leafy freshness. The palate offers full, enveloping tannins, balanced by zippy acidity, with a core of plum and soft, dark fruit. 13.8% alcohol and 3.54pH. Blend:77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 1% Carménère, 1% Petit Verdot, 1% Cabernet Franc
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2023 Château Brane-Cantenac checks in as 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% Carménère, and 1% Petit Verdot that spent 18 months in all new French oak. Impressive aromatics of ripe red, blue, and black fruits intermix with graphite, smoky tobacco, and spice on the nose. It's deep, dense, and concentrated on the palate, with integrated acidity and ripe tannins. This is shockingly concentrated, pure, and just a brilliant 2023 that will evolve gracefully for 30+ years. Drink 2028-2058.
The 2023 Brane-Cantenac is deep, bold and explosive, yet also closed in on itself. That won't be a problem in another few years' time, but today, the Grand Vin is embryonic. Time in the glass brings out dark red fruit, cedar, tobacco, dried herbs, mint and spice. Brane-Cantenac remains a wine of timeless classicism, a wine that embodies all the beauty and charm that only Bordeaux is capable of. Floral notes lift the dense, sustained finish. Superb.
This is really structured, with intense tannins that run the length of the wine and give it verve and vibe. Medium-bodied with lovely berry, light vanilla and currant flavors. The tannins are exceptional. This is a very structured Margaux that needs three or four years to come around. Best after 2028.
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.