Brane Cantenac 2012

Margaux, Second Growth

Excel download

View All Vintages of this Wine

Units Size Case size GBP Price: Quantities Buy
Tasting Notes

The 2012 Brane-Cantenac was picked from September 27 to October 16. It has a straight-down-the-fairway, classic nose for this estate, featuring open tobacco and graphite aromas that display great vivacity. You would think this was a Pauillac if tasted blind. The medium-bodied palate is more saline compared to previous bottles, delivering fine tannin and a tang of white pepper and fennel toward the finish that lingers in the mouth. This was a big surprise, but the 2012s have really blossomed in bottle, and this is no different. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château.

Score: 92

Neal Martin, Vinous.com Maturity: 2021 - 2045 01 January 2019

It is hard not to give kudos to proprietor Henri Lurton, as he’s done such a great job at this famous estate in Margaux. The 2012 has an opaque ruby/purple color and beautifully sweet, velvety tannins. It had to be more difficult achieving this level in the Médoc in 2012 than in Graves or the Right Bank sectors of Pomerol and St.-Emilion. With a lush, supple texture, medium to full body, and beautiful flowery blackcurrant and black cherry fruit, this opaque wine is pure and impressively endowed. Another beauty from Lurton, it is soft enough to be drunk early on, but promises to age well for 15-20 years.

Score: 91

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2015-2035 01 April 2015

A beauty from Henri Lurton, the 2012 Brane Cantenac exhibits classic notes of spring flowers intermixed with black raspberries, black currants and damp forest floor. This medium-bodied, sweet, ripe, quintessentially elegant, medium-bodied Margaux is nicely concentrated as well as sexy. Enjoy it over the next 10-12 years.

Score: 90 - 92

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2013-2025 26 April 2013

A wine with currant and berry character. Full body, with chewy tannins that are polished and juicy. Solid core of fruit yet harmonious for the vintage. Like it better than 2011.

Score: 90 - 91

James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com 21 April 2013

Dark crimson. Firm, fully ripe palate (contrasts with the lesser appellations of the southern Médoc). Spreads across the palate. Quite lip smacking and well judged. Not too sweet and, just, not too oaky. Broad.

Score: 17

Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com Maturity: 2020-2034 21 April 2013

Plush, with a legitimate structure buried in the core of steeped plum and blackberry fruit. A warm stone note lurks in the background. Well-rendered.

Score: 90 - 93

James Molesworth, Wine Spectator 08 April 2013