The 2000 Branaire-Ducru was the winning bottle in the January Installment of Pick My Next Bottle. The wine was decanted for two hours and paired with a homemade meatloaf and roasted Yukon potatoes.
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.
Purple in color. 13% ABV. Soaring nose of red and black fruits, cigar box, graphite and wet earth. Medium to full bodied with perfect acidity and balance. Soft and supple on the palate with nice balance. Currants, black cherries, tobacco and saline on the palate. The finish is long with prominent fine grained tannins. Really well made Bordeaux from a classic vintage. Best over the next 4-6 years.
My rating: 92 points.
Both the ’18 and ’19 Branaire Ducru are currently available in the $100 price range and would be a great addition to the cellar.