Chateau Branaire Ducru

A classic Saint-Julien: mineral-driven, with the structure of firm tannins and lively acidity typical of Médoc Cabernets — built for aging, but already accessible.

Château Branaire-Ducru has been one of the Quatrièmes Grands Crus Classés of Saint-Julien since 1855. The estate is located on deep gravel and limestone soils between Beychevelle and Ducru-Beaucaillou. The cuvée traditionally consists of Cabernet Sauvignon as the main grape variety, complemented by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Aged in barriques, with a proportion of new oak — between 50 and 65% depending on the vintage.

In the glass, it shows dark blackberry, cassis, and violets, followed by cedar, graphite, and a hint of tobacco. Medium to full body, the tannins are present but fine-grained. Long, spicy finish with a mineral note.

• Food pairing: Rack of lamb with a herb crust, aged Comté, duck breast with black cherry sauce
• Temperature: 16–18 °C