Chateau Branaire-Ducru - Saint-Julien 2011
Price: $76.00
| Producer | Chateau Branaire-Ducru |
| Country | France |
| Region | Bordeaux |
| Subregion | Saint-Julien |
| Varietal | Bordeaux Blend |
| Vintage | 2011 |
| Sku | 56900 |
Chateau Branaire-Ducru Description
Chateau Branaire-Ducru was originally a part of Chateau Beychevelle, but in the 17th century it split off from that estate. The name “Branaire-Ducru” is derived from Jean Baptiste Braneyre and Gustave Ducru, former owners of the estate. On the label there are 4 crowns which stand for the last 4 members of the Duluc family to have owned the estate–a marquis, a viscount, a count, and a countess. Château Branaire-Ducru is a member of the Bordeaux Union of Grands Crus, of Médocʼs Council of Crus Classés and of the Bordeaux Wine Academy. It was awarded 4th growth classification in 1855.
Grape Varieties: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit-Verdot
Aging: In oak barrels for 16-20 months with 60-65% new oak. The wood for the barrels is selected in various French forests according to their flavor and tannins. Traditional racking without pumping over. Fining in barrels with egg whites.
Wine Advocate: 96 Points
A top-notch effort from this estate, the 2011 exhibits an exotic perfume of lead pencil shavings, white chocolate, raspberry jam and red as well as black currants. Loads of fruit, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel and velvety tannin suggest this beauty will drink well for 15+ years. It is one of the stars of the appellation in this vintage. Bravo!
Wine Spectator: 93 Points
A very elegant style, with a violet frame to the supple red currant, blueberry and black cherry fruit flavors that mingle with high-toned spice on the finish. Offers fine-grained structure.
Wine Enthusiast: 92 Points
This wine is based on tannins, yet it also has weight and a complex fruit structure. Its power lies in the density of its texture.
Stephen Tanzer
Opaque deep purple-ruby. Penetrating, perfumed blackcurrant, mint and balsamic vinegar aromas are complicated by a candied violet note. Enters the mouth very fresh and smooth, then turns richer and fuller in the middle, with bright acids lifting the ripe, sweet black fruit flavors at the back. Finishes with building tannins and considerable freshness--not to mention sneaky concentration and excellent balance.
