2001 Brane Cantenac
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Tasting notes
Juicy red fruits, spring flowers, underbrush, and mint all emerge from the 2001 Château Brane-Cantenac, a pretty, complex Margaux from a vintage that favored Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Based on 55% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Cabernet Franc and aged 18 months in 70% new French oak, it borders on green yet shows beautiful sweetness of fruit. It's medium-bodied and beautifully balanced, with a fine, elegant mouthfeel, integrated acidity, and a great finish. Drink 2026-2036. The 2001 was harvested from September 27 to October 9, hitting 13% alcohol with a pH of 3.87.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
55% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc. 35.2 hl/ha. Deep core with brick at the rim. Appealing nose with some complexity. Red fruit still present. Some sweetness but fresh and lively. Dances on the palate. Good length. My pick for drinking now. (JL)
The 2001 Brane-Cantenac is one of the vintages that contains less Cabernet Sauvignon, here representing 35% of the blend. It also marked a changing of personnel in the vineyard as a number of long-standing members took retirement. This has always possessed an endearing, fragrant bouquet with lifted red berry fruit, freshly picked mint and a hint of aniseed. Completely charming. The palate is medium-bodied with a supple, smooth opening. Quite polished in style compared to the millennial vintage, this is lightly spiced with gentle grip, decent vigour for a 2001 and a satisfying, sustained finish. Delightful as always. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château in September 2025.
As with the 2000, this is tasting exceptional right now, and unlike many 2001s, does not seem to be dipping in its 25th year. Crushed roses, peonies, raspberry and blackberry fruits, mint leaf and crayon, totally delicious. Cool spring, great August and September. Harvest September 27 to October 9, 35.2hl/h yield, 3.87ph, Jacques Boissenot consultant, Henri Lurton owner and estate director, Christophe Capdeville technical director. 70% new French oak for ageing.
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.