Château Brainaire-Ducru - Duluc de Branaire-Ducru 2016

Château Branaire-Ducru used to be part of Château Beychevelle before Beychevelle was broken up in the mid-17th century to pay the debts of then-owner Bernard Nogaret de la Valette. In 1680, what became Branaire-Ducru was bought by Jean-Baptiste Braneyre, who, along with 19th-century owner Gustave Ducru, gave the estate its name. Classified as 4th Growth in 1855, Branaire-Ducru was purchased by Patrick Maroteaux in 1988, who immediately set out to improve the vineyards, cellar and reputation of the estate. After moving full-time to Saint-Julien in the late 1990's, Patrick became a leading figure in Bordeaux, holding the presidency of Union des Grand Crus de Bordeaux (UGC) between 2001 and 2008, then became president of the St-Julien appellation as well as remaining vice-president of the UGC. Sadly, Patrick passed in 2017, and the estate is now in the capable hands of his son, François-Xavier Maroteaux, who continues his father's legacy of excellence.

Duluc du Branaire-Ducru is the second label of the esteemed 4ème Cru, Château Branaire-Ducru in Saint-Julien, made with the same love and attention to detail as the Grand Vin, though from vines that are under 15 years old. The 2016 vintage is a blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, 1.5% Cabernet Franc and 0.5% Petit Verdot, fermented in stainless steel tanks and aged for 12 months in French oak barrels. In the glass, the wine shows a concentrated ruby color with purple highlights. Powerful aromas of cassis, blackberries, graphite, mulberry and tobacco leaf explode from the glass. The complexity and purity of aromas are amazing for a Saint-Julien at five years old. On the palate, the 2016 Duluc de Branaire-Ducru shows exquisite depth and persistence with an appreciable refinement. The tannins are strong but not overpowering, the acidity fresh and inviting and the fruit flavors complemented by a complex lead pencil minerality. What I love about this wine is its structure and concentration alongside its balance and energy; it doesn't drink like a second wine, but rather, an exceptional Saint-Julien. Enjoy with roast meats: beef, turkey, pork or chicken.