Chateau Brane-Cantenac (Futures Pre-sale) 2009

"Only 37% of the production made it in to the 2009 Brane Cantenac (slightly lower than most properties because the fruit was so good). This is a blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 7% Cabernet Franc, with a pH of 3.87 and finished alcohol of 13.2%. It is another offering that reveals no evidence of wood even though 70% new oak barrels were utilized. A dense plum/purple color is followed by a lovely perfume of flowers, boysenberries, black cherries, and black currants. Seamless in the mouth with stunning concentration, a seductive style, an exquisite Margaux delicacy, and levels of richness and intensity I have never before seen in Brane Cantenac, it should drink effortlessly for 30+ years.
Barrel Sample: 93-95 Points "

95 Points

The Wine Advocate

"Warm and rounded, this spicy wine has wood flavors just showing through the ripe fruit. It is already delicious, with rich blackberry flavors right up front, although its aging potential is evident with the concentrated, deep structure.
Cellar Selection"

94 Points

Wine Enthusiast

"Beautiful aromas of crushed blueberries and flowers follow through to a full body, with earth, sliced mushroom and dried strawberries. Lemon rind character. Slightly earthy on the finish. Best after 2018. "

93 Points

James Suckling

"Ripe and fleshy, with an enticing mix of Linzer torte, currant confiture and crushed plum fruit offset by hints of briar and bay leaf. The long finish lets roasted apple wood, singed iron and tobacco leaf notes fill in, while staying plush in feel. Combines the ripeness of the vintage with a nice old-school feel. Best from 2013 through 2025."

92 Points

Wine Spectator

"(a blend of 53% cabernet sauvignon, 40% merlot and 7% cabernet franc; 13.2% alcohol; ph 3.87; IPT 75; 37% selection) Aromas of spicy plum, stony minerals and herbs are currently a bit subdued. Suave and fine-grained, with a light touch to its rather wild flavors of blackcurrant, licorice, minerals and violet. Finishes with easygoing tannins that turned a bit dusty with air, as well as a touch of heat. This will need plenty of bottle age to pull itself together and develop complexity and flesh. But I like the way this wine expresses its appellation clearly in this very ripe year.
Barrel Sample: 89-92 Points "

92 Points

International Wine Cellar