2018 Château Branaire-Ducru

This Chateau Branaire-Ducru is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon , 32% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc grapes. The harvest took place at Chateau Branaire from Beychebelle (Saint-Julien) between September 18 and October 8. The wine was aged in about 60% new oak. The wine comes into its own when it is first stored for a few years.

The Saint-Julien is one of the most famous red wines of the growing region of Bordeaux. The area of controlled Appellation contains wines from the commune of Saint-Julien-Beychevelle in the Medoc and covers an area of 3.5 to 4 km. It is located about 10 km north of Margaux on the Gironde, bordering directly on Pauillac to the north. This commendable Chateau Branaire-Ducru has a beautiful garnet-purple color, a bit earthy on the nose, aromas of red cherry, berries, spices, nuts, cocoa and oak. Medium-bodied, firm with fruit, light spices, white pepper and a hint of sage. Nice tannins and commendable, lively finish.

According to James Suckling (97/10): "....Perhaps the greatest Branaire-Ducru ever made."