CHATEAU BRANE-CANTENAC 2eme Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 1996 Bottle

Description

Château Brane-Cantenac 1996 is a distinguished vintage that exemplifies the estate's character, earning 90 points from Vinous and 89 points from The Wine Advocate. Jancis Robinson rated it 16.5 points, noting its deeper core compared to the 1995 vintage, with a fresher profile enhanced by a minty note on the nose. The wine consists of 35.4% Cabernet Sauvignon, 47.6% Merlot, and 17% Cabernet Franc, offering a bouquet of blackberry, raspberry, and cedar, alongside hints of damp tobacco. The medium-bodied palate is well-balanced, showcasing vibrant black and blueberry fruit flavours with a touch of black pepper. While drinking well now, this wine has the potential to provide enjoyment for another decade, highlighting its classic Margaux expression.

*****

JANCIS ROBINSON 16.5 points
Deeper core than 1995 with brick at the rim. Fresher than the 1995 as well with a minty note on the nose. Tannins firm to hard but there’s sweetness on the palate and decent length on the finish. (JL)

VINOUS 90 points
The 1996 Brane-Cantenac stands as a worthy follow-up to the splendid '95, albeit not quite with the same sophistication. This vintage contained less Cabernet Sauvignon than the prior vintage (35% down from 48%). It veers more towards black rather than red fruit, this bottle a tad more opulent aromatically than previous ones, with just a hint of cassis and violet emerging with time. Fine definition. The palate is medium-bodied with a vibrant opening of black-pepper-laced black and blueberry fruit. It is a bit brasher than the '95 but upholds the leitmotifs of the estate, with just a touch of blood orange on the finish. This continues to drink well and should for another decade. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château in September 2025. - Neal Martin

THE WINE ADVOCATE 89 points
Reviewed by: Neal Martin
Published: Dec 30, 2016
Drink Date: 2016 - 2026
Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château, the 1996 Brane-Cantenac is a blend of 35.4% Cabernet Sauvignon, 47.6% Merlot and 17% Cabernet Franc. It has a fresh, mint-tinged bouquet with blackberry, raspberry, cedar and damp tobacco scents, a mintiness that becomes more pronounced with aeration. The palate is well balanced with grainy, slightly dry tannin. There is adequate depth and substance to this 1996 (more so than the subsequent three vintages), with black pepper and leather notes on the finish. Probably at its peak now, though I can envisage this offering another decade of drinking pleasure. Tasted March 2016.

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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.