BARON DE BRANE 2nd wine of Chateau Brane-Cantenac, Margaux 2023 Bottle

Description

IN BRIEF
The 2023 Baron de Brane is a vibrant and generous wine that showcases the exceptional potential of this estate, earning 89-91 points from The Wine Advocate and 92-93 points from James Suckling. It opens with captivating aromas of sweet cherries, dark berries, and raw cocoa, inviting exploration. On the palate, this medium-bodied wine features a fleshy character with silky tannins and lively acidity. Notes of stone fruit, blackcurrant, and blackberry are complemented by mineral and spice nuances, creating a delightful tasting experience. Decanter awarded it 92 points, praising its ripe, floral notes and freshness. With a drinking window from 2027 to 2038, the 2023 Baron de Brane is a refined choice, ideal for enjoying now or cellaring for future enjoyment.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Baron de Brane is the second wine of Château Brane-Cantenac, one of the prestigious estates located in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux. The 2023 vintage showcases the exceptional potential of this wine, reflecting both the estate's commitment to quality and the unique terroir of the region.

This blend typically comprises a majority of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with the exact proportions varying by vintage. The grapes are sourced from younger vines, allowing for a more approachable and elegant expression that can be enjoyed sooner than the estate's grand vin.

The 2023 Baron de Brane is characterised by its vibrant ruby colour, which draws you in. The nose offers an enticing bouquet of ripe red fruits, such as cherries and raspberries, complemented by subtle notes of spices, herbs, and a hint of oak that adds complexity.

On the palate, this wine is smooth and well-balanced, featuring juicy fruit flavours intertwined with silky tannins. The lively acidity ensures a refreshing mouthfeel, making it incredibly drinkable while still providing the depth and structure expected from a Margaux wine.

Baron de Brane is versatile when it comes to food pairings, making it an ideal accompaniment to a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, duck, and dishes featuring earthy vegetables.

Overall, the 2023 Baron de Brane is a delightful representation of its esteemed estate, showcasing the elegance and refinement characteristic of Margaux wines. It offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the quality of Bordeaux at a more accessible price point, making it a must-try for both casual wine drinkers and enthusiasts alike.

THE WINE ADVOCATE (89-91) points
Reviewed by: William Kelley
The 2023 Baron de Brane is lively and generous, offering up aromas of sweet cherries, dark berries and raw cocoa, followed by a medium-bodied, fleshy palate with sweet tannins and lively acids.

JAMES SUCKLING **** 92-93 points
18 Apr, 2024 – A crunchy sense to this, with stone, blackcurrant and blackberry character. Medium body. Mineral and spice coming through on the palate. Creamy-textured finish. 48% cabernet sauvignon, 43% merlot, 7% cabernet franc, 1% carmenere and 1% petit verdot.

DECANTER 92 points
Tasted by: Georgina Hindle (at Bordeaux, 09 Apr 2024)
Drinking Window: 2027 - 2038
Ripe and floral notes on the nose, really quite expressive and open aromatically. There’s a richness to the scents with ripe blackcurrants, cherries and touches of rose and violets too with some milk chocolate. Supple and tart, high acidity, juicy and ripe fruit, with crunchiness, quite lean but there’s great length with freshly picked mint and some cedar and herbal aspects. Crisp and clean, lovely purity and precision. Not so layered or plush but it’s fresh and inviting with lift and a lovely mineral undertone. Accessible. Ageing 12 months, 20% new oak. 14.5 press wine. Almost 100 IPT. 40% of production.

VINOUS 89-91 points
The 2023 Baron de Brane is well-defined on the nose with black cherries, wild mint and pencil box scents that are nicely focused. The palate is medium-bodied with quite a grippy entry. There's backbone on this Deuxième Vin, quite feisty on the finish with decent length. - Neal Martin

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ABOUT CHATEAU BRANE-CANTENAC
Château Brane-Cantenac is a remarkable winery located in the heart of the Margaux appellation in Bordeaux, France. With a history that dates back to the 18th century, this estate has built a solid reputation for producing exceptional wines that capture the elegance and complexity characteristic of the region. Château Brane-Cantenac is classified as a Second Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux classification, a testament to its quality and prestige.

The vineyards of Château Brane-Cantenac are ideally situated on the renowned gravelly soil of Margaux, which provides excellent drainage and contributes to the production of high-quality grapes. The estate primarily cultivates Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, allowing for the creation of wines that are rich in flavor and character. The commitment to low yields and meticulous vineyard management ensures that only the finest grapes are selected for vinification.

Château Brane-Cantenac is particularly celebrated for its elegant and refined wines, which are known for their balance, depth, and aging potential. The flagship wine, Château Brane-Cantenac, showcases a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The wine exhibits complex aromas of dark fruits, spices, and floral notes, along with velvety tannins and a long, lingering finish.

The winemaking philosophy at Château Brane-Cantenac emphasizes both tradition and innovation, utilizing modern techniques while respecting the estate's rich heritage. The wines undergo fermentation in temperature-controlled vats, followed by aging in French oak barrels to enhance their complexity and texture.

Sustainability and environmental stewardship are also important to Château Brane-Cantenac, with practices in place to protect the vineyards and promote biodiversity. This dedication to both quality and the environment ensures that the estate continues to thrive for future generations.

As Château Brane-Cantenac continues to garner accolades and recognition, it remains dedicated to its mission of crafting exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of Margaux. Each bottle tells a story of meticulous craftsmanship, passion, and the beauty of Bordeaux, inviting wine lovers to experience the artistry of one of the region's most esteemed producers. Whether enjoyed during special occasions or savored with fine cuisine, wines from Château Brane-Cantenac offer a true celebration of the elegance and finesse that define Bordeaux wines.