Chateau Brane Cantenac   Chateau Brane Cantenac

2011 Chateau Brane-Cantenac

By Chateau Brane-Cantenac

2011 Chateau Brane-Cantenac, Margaux, Bordeaux, France

The 2011 vintage presented a narrative of adaptability in the face of climatic challenges, resulting in wines that both fascinate and reward investors with their unique profiles. Amidst such conditions, the 2011 Chateau Brane-Cantenac from the storied appellation of Margaux stands as a testament to the resolve and meticulous craftsmanship of its makers.

 

Harvesting Excellence in Adversity

Cherished among collectors for its aristocratic poise, the 2011 vintage from Chateau Brane-Cantenac delineates itself with a poised equilibrium. With a growing season marked by an early bud burst followed by a hot spring and an erratic summer, the skilled vignerons at Chateau Brane-Cantenac navigated through nature's caprice with aplomb. The result is a vintage that encapsulates the climatic idiosyncrasies within each sip.

 

An Investment Worth Its Terroir

In this vintage, one observes how the grand terroir of Margaux expressed its perennial dance with the elements. The 2011 Chateau Brane-Cantenac showcases nuances derived from circulating Atlantic breezes and gravelly soils, infusing the wine with a structural finesse endemic to Mercer's particular patch of Margaux. The narrative of this vintage extends beyond simple enjoyment and moves into the realm of astute investment.

The palate is graced with discernible tannins and an eloquent expression of dark berries interwoven with subtle earthy undertones and a whisper of spice. Its poised structure suggests not only immediate pleasure but also impressive potential for evolution in the cellar—an attribute that secures its standing within investor portfolios.

In sum, the 2011 Chateau Brane-Cantenac emerges as an emblematic snapshot of a year defined by its irregularities; one that has been navigated with exceptional skill to produce a wine of nuanced complexity. For those looking to diversify their wine investment collection or simply cherish a glass reflecting the resilience and grace under pressure of the Margaux region, this vintage earns its praise and financial worthiness through both its character and collectibility.

Current market price

£730.00

12x75cl

Highest score

91

POP score

66.36

Scores and tasting notes

91

Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château, the 2011 Brane-Cantenac is a blend of 37% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 56.5% Cabernet Sauvignon and a pinch of Carmenère. It has a more attractive bouquet than the 2012, demonstrating more complexity and fruit intensity: blackberry and raspberry, a touch of cedar and tobacco thrown into the mix. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, the oak beautifully interwoven into the brambly red berry fruit, gently building with a hint of spice and dry tobacco on the finish. There is just a tad more substance than the 2012, yet it remains elegant, and given the vintage it is sophisticated compared to others this vintage. Tasted April 2015.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 30 December 2016

Vintage performance