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Branaire-Ducru 1996 is a mature-vintage, Cabernet Sauvignon-based red wine from the St-Julien appellation of Bordeaux. Château Branaire-Ducru is a Fourth Growth wine spanning 60ha of vineyards in the south of St-Julien. Purchased by the late Patrick Maroteaux in 1988, the estate is now run by his son Francois-Xavier. "Dark red with a hint of amber at the rim. Aromatic nose of red cherry, cedar, graphite and orange peel, complicated by a leafy note. Fresh, clean flavours of redcurrant and spicy herbs linger well on the juicy, high-acid finish. Improved considerably in the glass, showing sneaky concentration and depth. This is a lovely example of a Bordeaux made in a past, cooler era, with Cabernet grapes that were most likely not completely ripe. However, the mild leafy character adds complexity and refinement." International Wine Cellar, 2014
The 1996 Branaire-Ducru is a delightful vintage and represents the pinnacle of that decade. It has an exquisite bouquet that is defined and focused: blackberry, pencil lead, tobacco and a touch of chimney soot after time. The palate is very pure with really fine tannin. There is a sense of panache and class about this 1996: detailed and utterly harmonious with hints of blue fruit towards the Margaux-like finish. Classic Branaire-Ducru. Tasted at the Branaire- Ducru dinner. Neal Martin1st March 2020
16Jancis Robinson
Particularly lustrous dark crimson. Sweet, beguiling toasty nose. Black cherry elements. Sweet start, not the most classic St-Julien by a long way but it should give pleasure. More developed than most. (JR)
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Chateau Branaire-Ducru
Elegant, Complex and Balance
Founded in 1680 by Jean-Baptiste Braneyre, 4ème Cru Classé estate Château Branaire Ducru currently spans 60ha and is situated on the opposite side of the road from Château Beychevelle in the south of the St-Julien appellation. Renowned for producing pure and classic St-Julien, which is elegant, supple and well-balanced.
The estate is planted with predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, together with smaller amounts of Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc and is used to produce both the historic first wine in addition to a second wine, Duluc de Branaire-Ducru. These are reds that are perfect for aging, opening up with time in bottle and offering superb freshness and purity.