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Brane Cantenac 2005

Margaux, Second Growth

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Tasting Notes

This is the finest Brane-Cantenac I have tasted in over thirty years. Unusually perfumed and already approachable (atypical for most 2005 Medocs), it reveals a deep plum/purple color as well as a stunningly flamboyant bouquet of smoked herbs, licorice, camphor, black cherries, currants, and notions of plums and blackberries. Elegant with silky tannin and medium body, it is clearly a classic statement on the Margaux appellation. While not a powerhouse, it is beautifully concentrated, stunningly balanced, and surprisingly forward. It could be drunk now after several hours of decanting, but it should age easily for 20+ years.

Score: 94

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2008-2028 30 April 2008

A magnificent effort, the 2005 is the greatest Brane-Cantenac I have tasted. Even more compelling than it was last year, it admirably demonstrates why this was such a highly regarded property in the middle of the 19th century. Boasting a dense purple color, stunning sweetness, and a glorious perfume of spring flowers, lead pencil shavings, black cherry jam, and blackberries, it is an elegantly styled wine with gorgeous concentration, superb harmony, beautifully integrated tannin and acidity, and an expansive, long finish. Yet, the overall impression is one of finesse, elegance, and serious flavor concentration. While it will undoubtedly last 30 years or more, it is hard to know whether it will close down or become more drinkable. I recommend giving it 3-4 years of bottle age and drinking it over the following two and a half decades.

Score: 93 - 95

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2010-2035 30 April 2007

This dark plum/ruby-tinged Margaux displays a rich bouquet of dried herbs, truffles, meat juices, plums, anise, and black currants. Medium to full-bodied and complex, with a savory, broad, expansive mouthfeel, undeniable elegance, good freshness, and a long, moderately tannic finish, it requires 3-4 years of bottle age (or more if it closes down). It should evolve gracefully for 25+ years.

Score: 91 - 93

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com 30 April 2006

Full, sweet, porty, almost overripe notes (unusual for Margaux 2005). Something feral almost. All ripe fruit and not much structure, plus a bit sweet and unappetising on the finish. Fruit juice rather than wine. Not sophisticated or deep though certainly a very easy drink.

Score: 15

Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com Maturity: 2012-2018 10 April 2006

he 2005 displays an incredibly rich and spicy nose that almost leaps out of the glass. In the mouth it is silky and rich with a touch of prune. Not a classic style but very expansive with lots of concentrated dark fruits and a powerful structure. Well-made modern Margaux with a finish that endures.

Score: -

Albany Vintners, - 10 April 2006

Bright berry and currant aromas with hints of minerals follow through to a full-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Balanced wine.

Score: 89 - 91

James Suckling, Wine Spectator 01 April 2006