The 2000 Branaire Ducru was the winning bottle in the September installment of Pick My Next Bottle. The wine was decanted for two hours and paired with a hearty beef stew.
Chateau Branaire Ducru is a Fourth Growth Bordeaux according to the official classification of 1855. The 123-acre estate is in St.-Julien on the left bank of the Gironde River. It is owned by the Marotteaux family and produces up to 180,000 bottles annually. The vineyards are planted to 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22 % Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot. The estate dates back to the late 17th century.
Magenta in color. 13% ABV. Soaring nose of blackberry, currant and just a hint of vitamin. Pencil, cedar, violets, cherry and earth on the palate. Great fruit, ripe tannins, integrated acids and an exceptional finish. Exceptional now and should show well for another 10 years.
My rating: 93 points.
Both the ’09 and ’10 Branaire Ducru are currently available in the $75-$85 price range and would be a great addition to the cellar.
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Nice tasting note, Tom! Sounds like the 2000 Branaire Ducru is pretty much open, although still young. Really like the blend on this one. I’ve got several bottles sleeping nice and comfy at 55 degrees, so might have to dig into my stash and try one soon. Might even have some 95s still laying around. Cheers!
This bottle was just proof of how long lived this vintage might be. I have more bottles that I will leave alone for at least 5 more years.
Sounds like everything you’d want and expect from Bordeaux from a great vintage. Avg price on Wine Searcher is $110 per bottle. Great review and keep em coming
$110 is fair for a well stored bottle but I might be more inclined to buy recent vintages in the $75 price range.