Chateau Brane-Cantenac (Futures Pre-Sale) 2009

Professional Ratings

• 95 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
  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
• 94 Wine Enthusiast
  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
• 93 James Suckling
  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.
• 92 Wine Spectator
  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.