Tasting Notes
Will Gardener 92-94
Good deep plum, back to fruit salad note here, fresh and peachy, oaky too, the palate is cool and creamy, again the fresh balance with the dusty tannins is a brilliant combination. Drink 2028-2045
Vinous 96
The 2018 Branaire-Ducru is every bit as captivating as it was en primeur. Ripe, silky tannins give the 2018 a striking air of sensuality that only grows as the wine sits in the glass. Succulent red/purplish fruit, lavender, rose petal, mint, spice and gravel inflections all open more over time. Even with all of its natural radiance, Branaire remains a model of grace. It is unquestionably one of the under the radar wines of the year.
Anticipated maturity: 2026-2048
Robert Parker 93
The 2018 Branaire-Ducru has a medium to deep garnet-purple color and an upfront, expressive nose of baked black plums, boysenberries and Morello cherries with an undercurrent of dried mint, spice box and underbrush. Medium to full-bodied, the palate packs a very pleasant fruit wallop, featuring juicy black fruits and a firm, grainy frame, finishing long with lovely purity.
Anticipated maturity: 2023-2043
JancisRobinson.com 16.5
Tasted blind. Not that deep a crimson. Light and fresh – lunchtime claret?! Easy-peasy. Until some pretty grainy tannins on the end.
Anticipated maturity: 2026-2040
