Viniou Reviews
Baron de Brane 2014 from Château Brane-Cantenac is the second wine of this esteemed Margaux estate, beautifully reflecting the elegance and finesse typical of its appellation. Crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot and a touch of other Bordeaux varieties, the 2014 vintage benefits from a balanced season, offering classic concentration with well-integrated tannins and vibrant acidity. The wine is vinified in stainless steel and aged in French oak, allowing for supple structure while preserving aromatic clarity. In the glass, it reveals deep ruby hues, with inviting notes of blackcurrant, plum, violet, cedar, and subtle graphite, underpinned by a gentle smokiness and silky texture that is a hallmark of Brane-Cantenac.
Margaux, nestled in the southern part of the Médoc on Bordeaux’s Left Bank, is renowned for producing some of the world’s most perfumed and graceful Cabernet-based wines. The vineyards here benefit from a unique blend of deep, well-draining gravel soils that enhance ripening and imbue the wines with their distinctive finesse. The maritime climate, tempered by close proximity to the Gironde estuary and Atlantic Ocean, promotes slow, even maturation, which allows the subtlety and complexity for which Margaux wines are justly famed. Historically, Margaux holds a revered place in Bordeaux’s hierarchy, with properties like Château Brane-Cantenac at the forefront of the appellation’s reputation for refined, age-worthy wines.
This refined red is a perfect match for classic French fare or dishes featuring tender meats. Consider serving it alongside roast lamb with herbs, duck breast with cherry sauce, or a traditional entrecôte à la Bordelaise. For a regional touch, pair it with canard aux cèpes or a hearty cassoulet. The supple tannins and fresh acidity also lend themselves well to rich mushroom dishes, or mature cow’s milk cheeses.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for about an hour before serving to enhance its expressive bouquet and soften the youthful structure. Serve slightly below room temperature, ideally between 16-18°C, to allow the intricate aromatics and subtle palate to fully emerge and delight your senses. This wine can be enjoyed now or cellared for further development over the coming years.
