2005 Ch. Brane-Cantenac, Margaux

This got a little lost last year due to being released amidst a pack of more famous names. Offering outstanding value for a Second Growth, it is quintessentially Margaux, harmoniously beautiful and definitely one not to miss!Château Brane-Cantenac

Deep, very rich. Savoury, coffee, very classic perfume. Delicious.
(5/5 Stars - Medoc 2005 - Decanter Award Winners - July 08)

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.
(Robert Parker Wine Advocate - Apr 2008)