Brane Cantenac 2023

The 2023 Brane-Cantenac is a blend of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot (which saw some saignée), 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% Carmenère and 1% Petit Verdot, and it completed its malolactic fermentation in barrels as has been the rule at this estate since the 1990s. Offering up aromas of dark cherries, cassis and spices framed by creamy new oak, it's medium to full-bodied, rich and fleshy, with a creamy core of fruit and a long, gently lactic finish.

The 2023 Brane-Cantenac was born the year that Lucien Lurton, who oversaw 34 vintages, passed away. There is a touch of reduction on the nose that soon dissipates, revealing quite detailed blackberry, bay leaf and crushed stone scents that perhaps do not quite have the pixelation of the 2022, yet are very pure and refined. The palate is medium-bodied with svelte tannins and a keen line of acidity, bright and fresh with a judicious touch of spice on the finish. Very refined and elegant, this is a worthy follow-up to the 2022, but fashioned in a different style. Excellent. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château in September 2025. Drink 2029-2055

This shows very pretty fruit and ultra-fine tannins that have an almost al-dente sense to them. It has a medium to full body, fine tannins and a fresh, vivid finish. The tannin quality is exceptional.

The 2023 Brane-Cantenac is deep garnet-purple in color. Scents of blackcurrant jelly, boysenberries, and black raspberries slowly emerge from the glass, giving way to notions of charcoal, pencil lead, and a waft of tree bark. The medium-bodied palate has a solid structure of racy acidity and firm, ripe, grainy tannins supporting the tightly wound black and red fruit flavors, finishing on a lingering mineral note. The blend is 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot, with pH 3.59.