Château Brane-Cantenac 2023 Margaux (75cl)

A Margaux red from an estate classified as a Second Growth in 1855. The blend is 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% Carmenere and 1% Petit Verdot, with harvest from 4 September to 2 October 2023. Vinification takes place in oak casks, followed by 18 months in French oak barrels with 100% new wood. The estate describes 2023 as the second warmest year on record, with hot dry weather, mildew pressure met by vineyard work, early harvest heat, then beneficial rain and stable fine weather for ripening. The wine shows intense garnet with a bright ruby rim, concentrated wild berries, spices, liquorice, subtle woody and pastry notes, a supple full-bodied attack, tense evolution and a long mouth-watering finish with velvety tannins.