Neal Martin 90

The 2000 Branaire Ducru was picked September 25 to October 10 at 12.7 alcohol. It has a similar bouquet to my previous bottle, unfolding discreetly in the glass to reveal cedar-infused red fruit, while hints of dried blood/meat juices evolve with aeration. The medium-bodied palate is elegant and old-school, offering frayed tannins, noticeable acidity and tobacco and black pepper on the finish, which lacks grip compared to other bottles. Decanting would certainly benefit this wine. [Neal Martin, 22/09/2021]

Anticipated maturity: 2021-2030

Vinous 92

(77% cabernet sauvignon, 17% merlot, 4% petit verdot and 2% cabernet franc; 3.8 pH; 12.7% alcohol): Medium red with an amber rim. Precise aromas of red fruits, dried herbs and earth. Then more herbs, minty chocolate and dark fruits on the palate, lifted by a note of faded flowers. The long, creamy finish features truffles and brown spices. While a recently tasted magnum was drinking beautifully, another 750-ml. bottle was tired, earthy and drying. This note reflects the better 750, which I think is more typical of this wine. Harvested between September 25 and October 10. [Ian D’Agata, 03/01/2014]

Wine Advocate 92

Ex-chateau bottle tasted at Roberson’s Branaire-Ducru tutorial. The nose is very well defined with the Cabernet Sauvignon lending it more cedar and pencil lead tones. Tightly coiled and reticent, this is a bouquet that does not want to come out and play. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, a rigid structure here with superb balance. Almost understated in style with very good clarity on the fresh, focused finish, but it needs longer to show its true potential. Excellent. Drink 2012-2030. Tasted October 2010. [Neal Martin, 01/10/2010]

Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030

JancisRobinson.com 17

Bright crimson and promising although still quite tight with marked acidity. Some very attractive perfumes have already developed but there is lots of tannin still to resolve. [24/06/2010]

Anticipated maturity: 2014-2028