2023 Baron de Brane
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Tasting notes
The 2023 Baron de Brane has developed into a striking wine. Floral top notes meld into a core of blue/purplish fruit, lavender, spice, incense and dried herbs. Brisk acids perk up the mid-palate on the long, sustained finish. The blend works so well here. Readers will find a Margaux of stature and class.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2023 Baron De Brane is a rock-solid second wine offering some cassis and violet-driven aromatics, medium body, a round, supple mouthfeel, and ripe, integrated tannins.
Cedar, cigar wrapper, spice and red berry aromas create the perfume. On the palate, the wine is round, chocolatey, forward, and soft, with layers of ripe, creamy, black cherries, and a touch of dust to the tannins with a bit of peppery, spearmint that adds complexity to the endnote. This baby Brane is perfect to enjoy on release while waiting for the Grand Vin to develop. The wine blends 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, 1% Carmenere, and 1% Petit Verdot, 13.8% ABV.
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2023 Baron de Brane skips out with lively notes of red cherries, mulberries, and fresh blackberries plus hints of dusty soil and bay leaves. The medium-bodied palate is bright and crisp, with crunchy red and black berry flavors and a zippy finish. The blend is 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, 1% Carmenere, and 1% Petit Verdot.
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.