2001 Brane Cantenac

55% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc. 35.2 hl/ha. Deep core with brick at the rim. Appealing nose with some complexity. Red fruit still present. Some sweetness but fresh and lively. Dances on the palate. Good length. My pick for drinking now. (JL)

The 2001 Brane-Cantenac is one of the vintages that contains less Cabernet Sauvignon, here representing 35% of the blend. It also marked a changing of personnel in the vineyard as a number of long-standing members took retirement. This has always possessed an endearing, fragrant bouquet with lifted red berry fruit, freshly picked mint and a hint of aniseed. Completely charming. The palate is medium-bodied with a supple, smooth opening. Quite polished in style compared to the millennial vintage, this is lightly spiced with gentle grip, decent vigour for a 2001 and a satisfying, sustained finish. Delightful as always. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château in September 2025.

As with the 2000, this is tasting exceptional right now, and unlike many 2001s, does not seem to be dipping in its 25th year. Crushed roses, peonies, raspberry and blackberry fruits, mint leaf and crayon, totally delicious. Cool spring, great August and September. Harvest September 27 to October 9, 35.2hl/h yield, 3.87ph, Jacques Boissenot consultant, Henri Lurton owner and estate director, Christophe Capdeville technical director. 70% new French oak for ageing.