Château Brane Cantenac, 2ème Cru Classé, Margaux, 2017

Tasting Note:

This is another second growth that showed better at the UGC than at the Chateau. There was nothing wrong with either sample, but the Brane tasted at Siran had more depth and concentration - it was the clear star of the show. Marie Hélène Dussech explained that they are re-grafting more Cabernet Sauvignon onto Merlot rootstocks. The blend of the 2017 is 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. While it doesn't quite live up the standards set in 2015 and 2016, this is nonetheless a mighty impressive Brane Cantenac brimming with vitality. Perfumed notes of wild flowers, meaty Cabernet fruit, hints of coal, griotte and Chambord. The palate has good intensity with waves of pure hedgerow fruit, toast and sweet spice. The team integrated 3.4% press wine at an early stage which gives more mid palate weight. It feels cohesive, balanced and unforced - a really elegant, vibrant Margaux that finishes with engaging salty briar fruit. Excellent.