2024 Brane Cantenac
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Tasting Notes
This is the first vintage of Brane-Cantenac to be produced in the property’s new cellar and vat room – and the results are particularly impressive. The nose is awash with notes of ripe blueberry and pencil lead. The most remarkable aspect of their 2024 is the freshness on the palate, something Henri Lurton attributed to cool nights in July and August – producing a wine with the lowest pH ever here (3.53). The finish is especially long, shaped by chalky fine tannins that gradually melt away. The blend contains 11.3% press wine and is being aged in 80% new oak (a slightly lower portion than normal). 12.6% alcohol. Blend: 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc
Critic Scores
Average Score
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux
More reviews and scores
A blend of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc, the 2024 Brane-Cantenac exhibits aromas of sweet berries, vanilla pod and toasty new oak, followed by a medium-bodied, fleshy and youthfully tannic palate that's lent a creamy, lactic quality by its malolactic fermentation in new barrels.
Tons of energy, stone fruits, cherry pits, damson, a lovely feeling of fruit that has plenty of life ahead it, fresh and juicy with sapidity. not trying too hard just full of pleasure. Edge of grilled campfire, graphite, generosity, easily one of the wines of the vintage. 11.3% press wine, 3.53pH, 46.6hl/ha yield. Harvest 17 September to 8 October, 80% new oak for ageing.
The 2024 Brane-Cantenac is shaping up to be a gem. Blood orange, crushed flowers, spice, mint and chalk confer notable brightness. The 2024 is marked by a strong red-fruit character, bright acids and mid-weight structure, all of which make for a super-classic, if somewhat nervy, Brane-Cantenac. There's quite a bit of potential here. Tasted two times.
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.