2006 Chateau Brane-Cantenac
By Chateau Brane-Cantenac
2006 Chateau Brane-Cantenac from Chateau Brane-Cantenac, Margaux, Bordeaux
The 2006 vintage of the eminent Margaux appellation crafted by Chateau Brane-Cantenac articulately speaks of a season that teased and tested the vines. The characteristic maritime climate of the region invited a series of climatic whims, commandeering winemakers into a dance of precision and adaptability.
Embracing the Rigours of Nature
In this particular year where diligent vineyard management was paramount, the resulting wine from Chateau Brane-Cantenac steps forth with a proud defiance – a purposeful narrative woven by the season's conditions. It is worth noting that the 2006 growing cycle featured somewhat of a paradox – an initial drought followed by wetter spells, compelling the vineyard to express its true resilience and capacity for complexity under stress.
A Composition of Elegance and Depth
Upon decanting, the 2006 vintage delivers aromas laced with savoury notes that flirt with hints of blackcurrant and cedar. The palate subsequently reveals a rich tapestry of flavours steeped in Margaux finesse. It affords investors not only a poised example of Bordeaux's deftness in managing challenging vintages but also provides a lush, structured wine representative of its storied terroir.
As I revisit my tasting notes, the wine's tannic backbone strikes me as velvety yet robust – a testament to the careful extraction during vinification. Deep garnet hues lead to an entwined finish of fruit and earth that lingers with tenacity and grace.
In the lexicon of fine wine investment, the 2006 Chateau Brane-Cantenac encapsulates the agile dance between viticulturist and nature—it reminds us that in seasons less heralded, there lie hidden gems capable of outshining their sunnier counterparts. The insight offered through this vintage to sophisticated investors is one of endurance: it gracefully bears witness to time's benevolence while continuing to unfurl its narrative on the palate.
Aligning oneself with the 2006 Chateau Brane-Cantenac from Chateau Brane-Cantenac represents an investment in both liquid history and the age-worthy artistry of Bordeaux. This wine has harnessed a year laden with meteorological challenges to emerge as one dedicated to demonstrating stout-hearted elegance, detailed layering, and potential for continued evolution within any esteemed collection.
Market price (USD)
$920.00
12x75cl
Highest score
89
POP score
83.33
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted at Bordeaux Index's annual 10-Year On tasting in London.The 2006 Château Brane-Cantenac has a typical nose from the estate, although it is more reminiscent of a Saint Julien than a Pauillac: savory red berry fruit, tertiary notes and sandalwood developing with time in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannin, a slight green-ish tinge underneath, quite structured and with plenty of freshness towards the finish. My quibble is that for a Brane-Cantenac it is more developed than its peers. As such, it is drinking better than the 2005 at the moment since the preceding vintage requires more bottle age. That said, I would not be inclined to cellar it any more than a dozen more years. Tasted January 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 29 May 2016