Château Brane-Cantenac - Baron de Brane 2020
In the heart of Margaux, Château Brane-Cantenac occupies one of the great gravelly hills of the appellation and continues a history closely linked to Baron Hector de Brane, who acquired the property in the 19th century. Today led by Henri Lurton, this Second Grand Cru Classé of 1855 relies on a vineyard where the diversity of gravel, sand, and clay allows for a very precise reading of the different plots. Baron de Brane is the second wine of the estate, made with a selection of lots chosen for their suppleness and a more accessible expression than the grand vin. It nevertheless benefits from the same viticultural environment and the same rigorous plot-by-plot monitoring as Château Brane-Cantenac. In 2020, Merlot takes a majority place in the blend, giving the wine a particularly generous texture, while the Cabernets bring freshness and definition. Petit Verdot completes this structure with a spicy touch and additional structure. The vintage thus delivers a broad but refined interpretation of Margaux, favoring the velvety fruit and tannic finesse.
Baron de Brane 2020 blends 58% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot. This predominance of Merlot brings roundness and depth to the mid-palate, with an immediately generous expression of red and black fruits. Cabernet Sauvignon builds a straighter and more persistent framework, while Cabernet Franc introduces a floral dimension and additional freshness. Petit Verdot discreetly enhances the spicy nuances of the whole. The different lots are vinified with particular attention to the softness of extractions, consistent with the second wine’s vocation. Aging in French oak then accompanies the material without seeking a dominant woody presence. The 2020 currently has enough integration to be appreciated, but its structure still allows for several years of harmonious evolution.
The color shows a deep garnet with still strong ruby reflections. The nose opens on blackberry, black cherry, and blackcurrant, gradually accompanied by violet, licorice, and sweet spices. With aeration, notes of cedar, cocoa, and fine tobacco appear, enriching the fruit without weighing it down. The palate is ample and velvety, with supple tannins highlighting the particularly seductive character of Merlot in this vintage. The Cabernets bring more tension in the mid-palate and extend the tasting with a fresher and slightly graphite expression. The finish remains balanced and persistent, between black fruits, spices, and fine woody notes. Baron de Brane 2020 will accompany duck breast, roasted rack of lamb, veal chop with mushrooms, beef fillet, or roasted pigeon.
Grape varieties: 58% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot
