1993 Brane Cantenac
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Tasting notes
A mature, old-school claret, the 1993 Château Brane-Cantenac checks in as 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, and 18% Cabernet Franc that spent aged 18 months in 70% new French oak. Darker currants, leafy herbs, truffle, and spice notes all define the aromatics, and it's medium-bodied, round, and charming on the palate. It's still enjoyable and satisfying and will appeal to those who crave this style, although the 1992 might have a touch more elegance and finesse. Drink 2026-2028. The 1993 was harvested from September 20 to October 5, hitting 11.8% alcohol with a pH of 3.76.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Lawther MW, jancisrobinson.com
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot and 18% Cabernet Franc. 52.1 hl/ha. Amber colour. More leafy and vegetal than the 1992, the acidity considerably marked. Short and jarring on the finish. Greener all round. Higher yield probably didn’t help. (JL)
The 1993 Brane-Cantenac is little better than the 1992, with dry and tertiary vestiges of fruit that lack the complexity a decent vintage would have bestowed. The palate is full of sour cherries and sharp acidity, very monotone with a finish that, like before, just drops off a cliff. Any bottles ought to be drunk up. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château in September 2025.
Pale but vivid rose in colour, this has lovely fresh lilt through the palate, charming and finessed, with cranberry, loganberries, cherry pit, tobacco leaf, slap bang in its drinking window - don't wait any longer to drink this, but be prepared to be surprised but how charming it is, with signature appellation balance. Harvest September 20 to October 5, 52hl/h yield, 3.76ph, this was another difficult vintage with a hot summer but rainy September, good yields but some dilution. Carafe for sediment just before drinking. Henri Lurton owner, Jacques Boissenot consultant.
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.