Branaire Ducru Saint Julien 2015
Country:
France
Region:
Bordeaux
Winemaking:
Sustainable
ABV: 13.5%
Critics Scores
93 - James Suckling
2018
More open than many 2015 St.-Juliens at this stage in spite of the firm, dry tannin structure behind the bright cassis. The tannins need some integration, but with some patience (from 2021 or 2022), this will become a rather fine wine.
93 - Neal Martin
2025
The 2015 Branaire-Ducru has a refined bouquet with cranberry, redcurrant and a hint of tomato vine. This is understated compared to its peers but gains intensity with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied and nuanced, with fine tannins. Just the right amount of dryness matched with sapidity urges you back on the finish. The 2015 is a lovely Saint-Julien. Tasted blind at the 2015 Bordeaux Ten-Year-On tasting at Farr Vintners. 2026-2042
94 - Jane Anson
2019
Juicy and alive, this shines out the glass, compelling and charming with a searing brightness and zestiness - just great acidity that lifts the initial burst on the palate. The liquorice and clove spice is at the fore, as is the slight stoniness that lingers on the tongue, with the angles to the tannins giving the frame. It's forward and well worked, never too in your face, retaining the elegant aspect, but this has that tension and drive, straight and linear. Feels polished but not ready to drink yet. I do love the chalky, cleanness you get on the cheeks and the liquorice spice. Effortlessly balanced and definitely leaves you wanting more. This will be excellent in time.
Description
Patrick Maroteau's excellent 2015 from this Fourth Growth estate shows a real purity, with great precision and ripe tannins that grip and offer an intense focus. The rich, fresh, spicy nose of damsons and blackberry fruit oozes class. There is precision here, a polish – quite simply harmonious.
The wine tastes glorious, just as great wine should taste: crunchy pure and fresh fruit, high acidity, silky ripe tannins and nice balance. This is a triumphant wine, with a typical and classic blend for this great estate, and phenomenal length. It is a wine that the château can be proud of. Really elegant and one of our favourites, it's a must-buy this year.
Blend: 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc
Branaire Ducru Saint Julien 2015
€120.00