2001 Château Branaire-Ducru
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Tasting notes
The 2001 Branaire Ducru was picked October 1–14 and is slightly higher in alcohol than the 2000. It appears just a touch deeper in color than the previous vintage. The well-defined, cohesive bouquet of blackberry, raspberry, tea leaf and clove is less evolved than the 2000. The palate is medium-bodied with a firmer backbone and solid tannins that frame the lightly spiced, tobacco-tinged red fruit, which has ebbed a little since I last tasted it. This is well balanced and fresh, a little more persistent than the 2000, and it may benefit from another 2–3 years in bottle.
Critic scores
Wine Spectator
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The 2001 Branaire-Ducru is turning into an impressive wine. It has a refined bouquet with cedar and a touch of iodine that gradually evokes images of Margaux with time. There is intensity locked in here, but it is kept under control. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, good density but surprisingly backward, more so than the millennial vintage. But it feels very harmonious and there are wonderful black cherry and crushed strawberry notes laced with tobacco on the long finish. Very fine. Tasted at the Branaire-Ducru dinner.
Mid ruby. Very light scent with a hint of game. Just a tiny bit animal. Good bite and orange-peel zest. Good balance and a hint of mint too. Solid stuff. (JR)
About the producer
This Fourth Growth estate, just a stone’s throw from the wide expanse of the Gironde estuary, has been revitalised under the stewardship of former banker and businessman Patrick Maroteaux, who purchased the property in 1988.