Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
150cl * 13.5% ABV * Margaux, Bordeaux, France
The Lurton family are defined by its head, the esteemed landowner Lucien Lurton – remembered as one of the ‘great architects of the Médoc’ and defender of the wine region. But as Lucien has aged and taken a step back from managing his estates and making wine, Brane-Cantenac being the most prestigious, he has passed the reigns to his son Henri, who is now the head of this 2ème Cru Classé located west of the village of Cantenac in the Margaux appellation.
In 2009, an exceptional vintage year, Lucien remarked that his grape juice was so fragrant, even before fermentation, that the vat room was already full of the smell of blackberries and raspberries. The wines express excellent concentration and quality of a perfect growing season. And it most definitely produced some ripe Margaux fruit bursting with perfume at Château Brane-Cantenac.
A heady, floral perfume with mint and violet aromas. Silky and elegant on the palate. Black plums, morello cherries, mulberries and warm cassis with hints of dried rose, sandalwood and earthy spice. There is also a crush-stoned quality that brings fantastic depth to this plush, fruity Margaux. Ripe and succulent, supple tannins, and excellent complexity that is developing as it ages.
The 2009 vintage is still young, just entering its drinking window. There will still be a lot of fresh fruit characters and tannins. That being said, it is elegant and will pair beautifully with Tournedos Rossini. If you are looking for something a little less decadent, a herbed rack of lamb or a pan-fried duck breast will be delectable.
98 Points, Jane Anson, 2024, 'The years when Brane was starting to really come sharply into focus, and this is easily one of the best 2009s in the Margaux appellation, and great value in comparison to some of the biggest names. One for serious Bordeaux lovers, just super competent and impressive winemaking. You get pretty much 90% of what you need to know on the aromatics alone, concentrated cassis, a ton of depth, with fruit, acidity and tannins all perfectly in balance, so juicy and drinkable, concentrated and enjoyable. Decades ahead of it.'