Château Brane Cantenac, 2ème Cru Classé, Margaux,

Brane Cantenac is on tremendous form but doesn’t always receive the plaudits it deserves. It is arguably the best value Second Growth in the market, often rivalling their more venerated neighbours, Palmer and Rauzan Segla in blind tastings. Anyway, we are big fans of Henri Lurton’s home chateau; there’s a class and generosity to the wines, which makes them engaging even in their youth, although make no mistake, these wines mature with grace and charm. Initially a little reserved, then after some coaxing there’s that tell-tale Margaux florality interspersed with pure bilberry and subtle aromas of spice and cedar. The palate is seamless, waves of gloriously silky fruit coat the palate, yet there’s no perceptible weight, it’s totally effortless, just pure, fragrant crème de mûre fruit, sleek and seductive, framed by perfectly measured tannins. This is a wine that keeps growing in stature in the glass; engrained with classical reserve, but with enough sweet, silky textured fruit to make it really alluring. Fabulous! 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, 1% Carmenère, 1% Petit Verdot