Tasting Notes

93
The Wine Independent Lisa Perrotti-Brown - 05 Mar 24
The 2014 Branaire-Ducru is medium to deep garnet in color. Fragrant scents of kirsch, candied violets, and fallen leaves drift gently from the glass, with hints of Sichuan pepper and black olives in the background. The medium-bodied palate is all class, with great tension and fine-grained tannins framing the elegant perfumed fruit, finishing minerally.
Drinking Date: 2024 - 2040
91
Vinous Neal Martin - 19 Mar 24
The 2014 Branaire-Ducru has a "quieter" bouquet than its peers, a little muted at first, though well-defined with mainly black tertiary fruit laced with tobacco. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins. It's a classically styled Saint-Julien that might lack a bit of substance for some on the finish, though it conveys a sense of drinkability. It's one of the few Left Bank wines to show better now than six years earlier. Tasted blind at the Southwold 10-Year-On tasting.
Drinking Date: 2025 - 2045
Saint-Julien Fine Wine

Saint-Julien

Saint-Julien, a prestigious Bordeaux appellation in the Médoc, is famed for its balanced red wines, blending the power of Pauillac with the elegance of Margaux. Typically made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, these wines offer rich fruit flavours, refined tannins, and vibrant acidity. Known for their finesse, complexity, and long ageing potential, top producers include Château Léoville-Las Cases, Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, and Château Gruaud-Larose. Saint-Julien wines are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.