2008 Brane Cantenac
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Tasting notes
A classic, rock-solid Margaux, the 2008 Château Brane-Cantenac is based on 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, and 2% Cabernet Franc and was aged 18 months in 70% new French oak. Following a challenging spring with storms and hail, the vintage saw challenging early September weather before sunshine arrived mid-month and allowed ripe, clean fruit to be harvested. Ultra-classic Margaux red and black fruits, spice, smoked tobacco, and gravelly earth nuances all shine here, and it's medium-bodied, has a concentrated mid-palate, and outstanding length. It brings a similar style to the 2007, yet with more density and richness, and will keep for another two decades. Drink 2026-2046. The 2008 was harvested from September 20 to October 17, hitting 13% alcohol with a pH of 3.75.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc. 44.7 hl/ha. Garnet hue, pale at the rim. Fresh and lifted on the nose with a hint of mint. Some sweetness on attack. Polished tannins. Lighter weight and not overly complex, but harmonious. (JL)
The 2008 Brane-Cantenac is still marked by eucalyptus scents on the nose, though not as pronounced as in the bottle I tasted several years ago. Quite fresh with a decent amount of blackberry and wild strawberry fruit, it gradually becomes more pastille-like in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins, a keen line of acidity and notes of black tea and bay leaf towards the finish. However, this vintage is hobbled by a lack of complexity and terroir expression. It does not have the charm and personality of maybe even the 2007. I cannot see this going anywhere. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château in September 2025.
Firm velvet red colour, austere and still firm in its tannic structure. Savoury dark fruits, raspberry leaf, tobacco, campfire, creamy texture as it opens, plenty of life still but I would suggest enjoying over the next five years to make the most of the fruit. A challenging vintage, changeable weather throughout until sustained sunshine during harvest, that lasted from September 20 to October 17, 44.7hl/h yield, 3.75ph, 70% new oak for ageing. Eric Boissenot consultant, Henri Lurton owner, Christophe Capdeville technical director. Maybe 92.
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.