2011 Chateau Branaire Ducru
By Chateau Branaire Ducru
2011 Chateau Branaire Ducru from Chateau Branaire Ducru, St-Julien, Bordeaux
The 2011 vintage from the esteemed quarters of St-Julien, defined by its graceful ageing potential and harmonious structure, bears witness to the meticulous handiwork at Chateau Branaire Ducru. A year marked by climatic seesaws has resulted in a wine that calls for contemplation over rash judgement.
Investment Worthy Nuances of a Challenging Vintage
While 2011 was a year peppered with climatic challenges in Bordeaux, the adept team at Chateau Branaire Ducru has manifested a wine resonating with balance and poise. This offering, while belying the conventional robustness typical of St-Julien, crowns subtlety and elegance as its defining virtues. Adroit investors will recognise the nuanced complexity which often delineates wines born from the strains of mother nature’s whimsy.
A Taste Chronicle
In the glass, this garnet-hued concoction wafts out whispers of dark berry fruits mingled with understated cedary warmth, evidencing its dignified maturation in French oak. The ever-compelling narrative conveyed through each sip unfolds silky tannins—a testament to its careful cultivation on the deep gravel beds quintessential to the terroir. The 2011 vintage releases a keen expression of graphite mingled amidst its ripe yet refined fruit profile, encapsulating the earnest character one seeks in a most investable Bordeaux.
Vinous aficionados investing in ‘off’ vintages discover gems such as the 2011 Chateau Branaire Ducru—a testament to endurance and masterful winemaking. With years still remaining in its trajectory towards peak evolution, this vintage promises further unfolding layers of complexity for those patient investors seeking refined augmentation to their Bordeaux holdings.
Imagine this 2011 vintage as a connoisseur’s sonnet; an ode to vigour amidst adversity; capturing an evolution that speaks not just to the seasoned palate but also to investors discerning enough to perceive value beyond the immediate gratification of more celebrated years.
Market price (CAD)
$730.00
12x75cl
Highest score
89
POP score
48.89
Scores and tasting notes
A dense blue/ruby/purple color is followed by notes of raspberries, incense and spring flowers, supple tannins, medium body and excellent elegance as well as purity. The result is a suave, savory 2011. While it does not possess the size or richness of vintages such as 2009 and 2010, the 2011 has plenty of charm and appeal. Drink it over the next decade.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2014