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

Name: Château Brane Cantenac, 2ème Cru Classé, Margaux
Brand: Château Brane-Cantenac

Available Vintages

all 2012 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

justerini & brooks tasting note

“Concentration” is Henri Lurton’s word for 2020. After 50 days without rain, it’s no surprise that Brane has an intense colour and a deep core of fruit, however, what makes the 2020 so special is that it marries the characteristics of the vintage with the sumptuous style of this terroir. Beautifully perfumed fruit, notes of coal, crème de cassis, griotte, gentle spices, this is a pure and very seductive nose. On the palate, while serious and more profound than the 2019, it retains the classic Brane charm; refined, sophisticated with a generosity of fruit that feels like velvet on the palate. Pure crème de mûre, mulberry, notes of dark chocolate, very impressive and long, the fruit is sweet, fresh and vital. The tannin management is impeccable, they caress the palate with notes of cocoa nibs, and bramble fruit, providing length and definition on the saline finish. Delicious! 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot and 1% Carmenère.

critic reviews

92/100Neal Martin,Vinous

2017 was the year in which three hectares were planted with white varieties. The 2017 Brane-Cantenac has a slightly leaner nose compared to vintages either side, more marine-influenced with oyster shell and kelp infusing the black fruit, but finely delineated. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins. This feels lightly spiced and harmonious, quite "gentle" for the château with a judicious touch of cracked black pepper than enhances the finish. Fine. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château in September 2025.

DRINKING WINDOW 2026 - 2045

date of review 09/2025

94/100Jane Anson,Robert Parker Wine Advocate

Soft crushed rose petals, this is remarkably open and ready at 8 years old when you look at the rest of the vertical - definitely one for early drinking, still delivering charm, character and balance. Expect silky tannins, crushed raspberry puree, good quality. Harvest September 14 to October 2, 31.3hl/h yield, 3.6ph, 70% new French oak for ageing. Eric Boissenot consultant, Henri Lurton owner, Christophe Capdeville technical director.

DRINKING WINDOW 2025 - 2040

date of review 09/2025