1981 Brane Cantenac
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Tasting notes
The 1981 Brane-Cantenac is a vintage that I have not encountered since my earliest days in the wine business. It was picked September 30 to October 16. The nose is quite respectable given the growing season, presenting vestiges of black fruit, pressed flower and mint, and becoming more herbal as it opens in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied and very simple, not really matching the quality of the nose, and it dries out toward a green finish. The nose raised my hopes but the palate fell short. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château .
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
This is a charming, soft, fruity, straightforward wine, with medium body and a clean, undistinguished finish. Anticipated maturity: Now-may be in decline. Last tasted, 6/87.
This is a charming, soft, fruity, straightforward wine, with medium body and a clean, undistinguished finish. Anticipated maturity: Now-may be in decline. Last tasted, 6/87. Jan 1998, www.robertparker.com
About the producer

Château Brane-Cantenac has been a consistent performer in the Margaux wine appellation since Henri Lurton took over the property, but thanks to replanting and investment in the last decade, quality has seen another sharp upswing.