Duluc de Branaire-Ducru 2018

A refined and aromatic Second wine from Saint-Julien

The producer

Grand Cru Classé in 1855, Château Branaire-Ducru is one of the finest names in the Saint-Julien appellation. Owned by François-Xavier Maroteaux, the son of the late Patrick Maroteaux, and managed by Jean-Dominique Videau, Château Branaire-Ducru offers, one vintage after another, the superb expression of this great terroir, situated on the left bank of Bordeaux. Producing wines that are renowned for their elegance, their velvety texture on the palate and their consistency.

The vineyard

The vineyard of Château Branaire-Ducru spreads over 60 hectares, following an extension of 10 hectares in 2009. The vines are 36 years old on average (some are a hundred years old) and are planted on quaternary gravel-siliceous alluvial soils. Known as one of the warmest terroirs in the region, it allows the late-ripening grape varieties to develop while ensuring perfect phenolic ripeness.

Part of the vineyard as well as the young vines are dedicated to the production of the Duluc de Branaire-Ducru wine, the second wine of Château Branaire-Ducru, a must-know reference among fine Saint-Julien wines.

The vintage

The heavy rainfall during the winter and spring led to strong mildew pressure, which was contained thanks to the work of the estate's teams. Despite the humidity, the mild weather during spring favoured a homogeneous flowering period. From mid-July onwards, hot and dry weather conditions prevailed up until the harvest. The grapes were harvested at full maturity between September 19th and October 10th under exceptional weather conditions. The grapes were very rich and lead to the production of dense wines.

The blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (57%),
Merlot (39%),
Cabernet Franc (3%)
Petit Verdot (1%).

Duluc de Branaire-Ducru 2018: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour
The colour is intense and deep.

Nose
Expressive and complex, the nose combines fruity and spicy fragrances. When aired, gourmet and refreshing notes are revealed, conjuring up a delicious and lively bouquet.

Palate
The perfect expression of this vintage’s beautiful maturity, this wine seduces the palate with its roundness, its subtle acidity and its delicate spicy aromas, obtained from the oak barrels in which this wine was aged. The finish is persistent and presents a pleasant freshness.