Château Brane Cantenac, 2ème Cru Classé, Margaux, 2012
Henri Lurton's magnificent second growth Chateau in Margaux has been on a fine run of form. The 2018 is an exceptional effort, one that may even eclipse the superb 2015 and 2016. This is quintessential Margaux; all fragrance and purity of fruit. The bouquet offers notes of potpourri, griotte liqueur and Chambord - this is so seductive and nuanced. It is very distinguished with a real sense of nobility. Pure, decadent fruits wash over the palate - this is so finely textured and beautifully transparent. There's good weight of fruit; polished, sensual, sweet blackberries, toast and sweet spice. We were so impressed by the focus, precision and vibrancy of the fruit - it engages and coats the palate without any heaviness. The tannins are salty and lithe, packed with distinguished fruity detail. A harmonious and gorgeously textured Brane. 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. 13.4% Alcohol.
critic reviews
The 2012 Brane-Cantenac was a relatively late-ripening vintage for which harvest finished on October 16. This is far better than the 2011 with more fruit and vigour. Finely delineated blackberry, wild hedgerow and graphite scents continue to lend it a Pauillac-like allure. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and vivid black fruit laced with white pepper, leather and tobacco. Very harmonious and quite elegant in style, this has a very endearing poise on the finish. The 2012 is just entering its drinking window now and should give another 20 years' drinking pleasure. Impressive for the vintage. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château in September 2025.
The 2012 Brane-Cantenac is medium to deep garnet colored. It opens with tobacco leaf, leather, and tilled earth scents over a core of prunes and mince pies, plus a suggestion of dried sage. The medium-bodied palate is a little thin yet has nice freshness, offering chewy tannins and a savory finish.
The 2012 Brane-Cantenac was picked from September 27 to October 16. It has a straight-down-the-fairway, classic nose for this estate, featuring open tobacco and graphite aromas that display great vivacity. You would think this was a Pauillac if tasted blind. The medium-bodied palate is more saline compared to previous bottles, delivering fine tannin and a tang of white pepper and fennel toward the finish that lingers in the mouth. This was a big surprise, but the 2012s have really blossomed in bottle, and this is no different. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château.