Château Brane-Cantenac - 2er Cru Classé 2011 - 750 mL

Château Brane-Cantenac - 2er Cru Classé 2011

Overview
Château Brane-Cantenac is a prestigious estate located in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, one of the most renowned wine-producing regions in the world. Classified as a 2nd Cru Classé in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, Château Brane-Cantenac has long been regarded for producing wines of exceptional finesse, elegance, and complexity. The 2011 vintage is a notable one, offering a balance of structure and fruit, with the potential for aging and refinement.

The Estate

Château Brane-Cantenac is one of the standout estates in the Margaux appellation, which is known for its elegance and aromatic intensity. The estate has been in the family of Henri Lurton since 1992, and under his stewardship, it has embraced both modern winemaking techniques and respect for traditional practices. The vineyards of Brane-Cantenac are planted on the deep gravel and limestone soils typical of the Margaux region, which contribute to the wine's characteristic finesse.

Terroir and Vineyards

The vineyard spans 75 hectares, and the blend of soils (gravel, clay, and limestone) helps produce wines with complexity, structure, and a long aging potential. The estate is planted mainly with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The proximity to the Garonne River also provides a beneficial microclimate that helps regulate the ripening of the grapes, adding to the wine’s elegance and fruit-forward character.

Grape Composition (Typical Blend for 2011):

• Cabernet Sauvignon: 60%
• Merlot: 30%
• Cabernet Franc: 7%
• Petit Verdot: 3%

The 2011 Vintage

The 2011 vintage in Bordeaux was a challenging year, with cooler temperatures and rainfall in the early months of the growing season. However, a dry and warm summer allowed for the grapes to ripen fully, producing wines with balanced acidity, fresh fruit, and a more restrained character compared to the powerhouse years like 2009 or 2010. The 2011 wines are characterized by their more refined, elegant style, making them approachable in their youth but also capable of aging well.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep, brilliant ruby red, with slight garnet reflections as it ages.
• Nose: Elegant aromas of red fruits like blackberries, raspberries, and cherries, accompanied by floral notes of violet and a hint of cedar and spices. Subtle earthy tones with a touch of tobacco and graphite emerge with aeration.
• Palate: Medium to full-bodied with a balanced structure, silky tannins, and a freshness that lifts the wine. The fruit is ripe but not overwhelming, with layered flavors of red fruit, blackcurrant, and a trace of chocolate. The oak influence is well-integrated, providing depth and complexity.
• Finish: Long, smooth, and refined, with lingering fruit and mineral notes.

Ageing Potential

The Château Brane-Cantenac 2011 is a wine that will continue to evolve gracefully. While it is approachable now, the wine has the structure and acidity needed for long-term aging, with the potential to evolve over the next 10-15 years, developing additional complexity and secondary characteristics.

Food Pairing

This wine pairs exceptionally well with dishes that highlight the wine's structure and balance:

• Roast lamb with rosemary and garlic
• Duck confit with red wine sauce
• Grilled ribeye steak
• Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert

Investment and Collectibility

Château Brane-Cantenac is a wine of excellent value within the Margaux appellation and the 2nd Cru Classé tier. The 2011 vintage, though not as iconic as other years, is still highly regarded for its balance and finesse. With its ability to age well and a history of consistent quality, it is a great option for collectors looking for a wine that will mature gracefully over time.

Château Brane-Cantenac 2011 stands as a fine example of the elegance and subtlety of Margaux wines. Offering a balance of fruit, structure, and finesse, it is an excellent choice for both immediate enjoyment and long-term cellaring.