Chateau Brane Cantenac   Chateau Brane Cantenac

2018 Chateau Brane-Cantenac

By Chateau Brane-Cantenac

2018 Chateau Brane-Cantenac from Chateau Brane-Cantenac, Margaux, Bordeaux

The 2018 vintage in Bordeaux stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of this enduring wine region. Amongst the myriad of accomplished releases, the 2018 Chateau Brane-Cantenac from the eponymous and revered producer in Margaux is a shining beacon of artistry and finesse.

 

Confluence of Climate and Craft

The year 2018 was a climatic rollercoaster for Bordeaux, challenging vignerons with a wet start followed by a glorious, warm summer which concluded in an ideally-timed harvest. It was under these testing conditions that Chateau Brane-Cantenac succeeded in crafting a wine of mesmerising complexity and elegance. The ingenuity of winemaking here has always been to allow the terroir to speak through the grapes, and 2018 has been no different.

 

The Embodiment of Margaux Terroir

This consummate expression from Margaux encapsulates the charm and sophistication expected from the appellation. The 2018 Chateau Brane-Cantenac exudes opulent aromas that interlace dark cherries with subtle floral notes reminiscent of violets, all underpinned by the finely-tuned use of oak. On the palate, this claret radiates grace and structure; tannins are ripe yet polished, offering a silken framework for the intense black fruit core to resonate.

With a compelling blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, and minor proportions of Cabernet Franc and Carmenere, this composition speaks to the adaptability of Chateau Brane-Cantenac in interpreting the vintage's unique narrative. The wine's impeccable balance heralds remarkable ageability, sure to entice any discerning fine wine investor.

 

Investment Merit Wrapped in Elegance

In summary, for enthusiasts seeking exemplary Margaux wines or investors aiming to expand their portfolios with exceptional pieces, the 2018 Chateau Brane-Cantenac embodies the pinnacle of finesse that marks a singular investment-grade wine. Its poise and cellaring potential affirm its standing as one of those rare vintages with both immediate appeal and longevity promise – a bastion for future appreciation.

Current market price

£580.00

12x75cl

Highest score

95

POP score

38.67

Scores and tasting notes

95-96

What strikes me about this Brane-Cantenac is the gorgeous center palate of ripe fruit, which gives an impression of generosity, yet it’s tight and reserved at the same time. Fine and polished tannins follow on and drive this gorgeous fruit.

James Suckling - jamessuckling.com - April 2019

95

This is a serious wine, with well constructed walls and floor, but it's full of life too, with brambled, succulent and generously-extracted fruit on the nose. It has less immediate charm than some in the appellation and will take a while to come round, but it has clear ageing ability and is one to savour. You feel the precision and confidence in how it presents itself. 1% Petit Verdot makes up the blend - there was no Carmenère in the grand vin in 2018. 45hl/ha yield. 70% new oak.

Jane Anson - Decanter - April 2019

92-94

The 2018 Brane-Cantenac is deep garnet-purple in color and delivers expressive black cherry compote, blueberry coulis and crème de cassis scents with suggestions of cigar box, Provence herbs and lavender. Full-bodied with mouth-filling, rich black fruit preserves, it has a velvety texture and a long, perfumed finish.

Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 23rd April 2019

93

The 2018 Brane-Cantenac is medium to deep garnet-purple in color, leaping from the glass with vibrant notes of kirsch, black raspberries and warm cassis, plus suggestions of roses, forest floor and cinnamon stick with a waft of cedar chest. The medium-bodied palate is wonderfully elegant and refreshing, weighing in at just 13.5% alcohol, while not scrimping on the interplay of red and black fruits. It has lovely soft tannins and a long, perfumed finish. Impressive!

Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 31 March 2021

92-95

The 2018 Brane-Cantenac captures all of the natural richness of the year. Ample, creamy and resonant, the 2018 offers quite a bit of intensity while retaining its mid-weight sense of structure. Dark red cherry, mint, spice, and dried rose petals are some of the signatures. Even with its obvious volume the 2018 retains lovely aromatic freshness and nuance. The 2018 is an especially juicy, open-knit Brane-Cantenac. Grilled herbs, menthol, spice and anise add an attractive upper-register to the perfumed finish. The blend is 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Tasted three times.

Antonio Galloni - Vinous - April 2019

Vintage performance