Chateau Brane-Cantenac 2017

Cellar for up to 25 years. Decant for up to 2 hours before serving.

This is a classic Bordeaux red blend from the heart of Margaux, on the Gironde river’s left bank. It is replete with scents of cranberry, blackberry, cassis, eucalyptus and cigar smoke. It is 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 23% Merlot and small splashes of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, adding colour and spicy nuances.

Chateau Brane-Cantenac is one of Bordeaux’s great wine estates, dating back to the 18th century. Four generations of the Lurton family have guided the winery to the present day, so the incumbent owner, Henri Lurton, has a wealth of generational knowledge to draw from. The appellation of Margaux is famed for its mineral-rich, gravel-infused soils, and the chateau occupies one of its finest spots, on the top of an eminent plateau.

Bundles of raspberries, blackcurrants and plums burst in the mouth with every sip of this Bordeaux red. Its tannins are firm and grainy. A powerful structure means it has incredible potential for ageing in the bottle. Underlying hints of oak, dry flowers, dark chocolate and sweet spice carry each sip into a long, satisfying finish. Consider pairing this wine with meaty French dishes, such as duck a l’orange, steak au poivre, or a beef stew.