2002 Brane Cantenac
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Tasting notes
A solid, balanced effort from a challenging vintage, the 2002 Château Brane-Cantenac is based on 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, and 7% Cabernet Franc and was aged 18 months in 70% new French oak. From a cooler growing season that was saved by four weeks of sunshine leading up to harvest, its ripe red and black fruits intermixed with spice and graphite define its aromatics, and it's medium-bodied and concentrated, with a rather foursquare style, integrated acidity, and solid length. Drink 2026-2036. The 2002 was harvested from September 26 to October 11, hitting 13% alcohol with a pH of 3.87.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot and 7% Cabernet Franc. 31.6 hl/ha. Garnet red. Diffuse nose with a hint of brambly fruit. Light and easy-going, the acidity present. No great complexity. Short finish. Unlikely to evolve further. (JL)
The 2002 Brane-Cantenac marked the first year that Henri Lurton witnessed coulure in the Cabernet Sauvignon after flowering. Like before, this has less fruit than the previous two vintages, usurped by tobacco and cigar smoke aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with light tannins. The 2002 is balanced, fresh and easy-drinking if a little facile in context. A Grand Cru Classé of this standing ought not to be easy-drinking, hence my score. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château in September 2025.
While not delivering the clarity and density of the 2000 and 2001, this has balance and lilting freshness, focusing on earthy, campfire notes, touches of crushed cassis and cherry pit. A challenging growing season, with an excellent end of year in the run up to harvest. Owner Henri Lurton began a serious terroir study in this vintage, working with Pierre Becheler. Harvest September 26 to October 11, 31.6hl/h, 70% new French oak, 3.87ph. Jacques Boissenot consultant, Christophe Capdeville technical director.
About the producer
Château Brane-Cantenac has been a consistent performer in the Margaux wine appellation since Henri Lurton took over the property, but thanks to replanting and investment in the last decade, quality has seen another sharp upswing.