2014 Brown (Pessac-Leognan)
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2014 Brown, now in bottle, is building on the promise it showed in barrel. It has a ripe and generous bouquet with upfront cedar-infused black fruit. This property is always a little feisty in its youth and this 2014 is no different, though it needs 3-4 years to fully assimilate the new oak. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannin, delicious black fruit laced with tobacco and spices, gently fanning out towards the finish that offers commendable substance and length. A Pessac-Léognan property that I feel is undervalued in the marketplace, this 2014 Château Brown comes recommended and should drink well for 15-20 years.
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Tim Atkin MW
More reviews and scores
60% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Sémillon. Lovely aroma of zesty lemon cream, with just a hint of grapefruit, cedar and vanilla. A light and satisfying tannic grip on the palate, giving a slightly chalky texture. Fresh, full of lively citrus fruit, the oak really well integrated and the grapefruity acidity (just) in balance. Impressive length. (JH)
A dark, explosive wine, the 2014 Brown hits the palate with tons of intensity and breadth. Black fruit, smoke, mint, leather and tobacco wrap around the huge, structured finish in a wine that brings together intense fruit with an equally imposing sense of structure. Consulting winemaker Frédéric Massie continues to do impressive work at Brown, a historic estate in Pessac-Léognan that seems to be on the rise. There is a lot to like and look forward to. The blend is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot.