96

Antonio Galloni

Vinous

The 2020 Brane-Cantenac screams with Cabernet Sauvignon character, concentrated by the natural richness of the year. Super-ripe dark blue/black fruit, blueberry jam, crème de cassis, lavender, sage and menthol meld together, giving the Brane-Cantenac an exotic quality that is impossible to miss. The oak imprint remains quite present, but at the same time, it is well balanced. Time in the glass brings out a whole range of floral and savory notes that add character and a feeling of updated classicism. Yields were 31 hectoliters per hectare as opposed to the more typical 40 or so. 12/2022

96

Neal Martin

Vinous

The 2020 Brane-Cantenac was bottled towards the end of July, a little later than usual, partly due to the logistics. It takes time to open in the glass, offering gorgeous blackberry, pencil box and tobacco scents that gain intensity with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannins and outstanding delineation. Very cohesive, this is a supremely focused Brane-Cantenac that lives up to the billing after such an impressive showing en primeur. So precise on the finish, with light graphite notes lingering on the aftertaste. Wonderful. 12/2022

94

William Kelley

Robert Parker/Wine Advocate

The 2020 Brane-Cantenac has turned out nicely, offering up aromas of blackberries and crème de cassis mingled with notions of licorice, pencil shavings, violets and subtle hints of smoked meats. Medium to full-bodied, rich and fleshy, with a lavish core of fruit, ripe acids and sweet tannins that assert themselves on the savory finish, it can't quite match the purity and sensuality of the 2019, but it's a strong effort. 04/2023

96

Jean-Marc Quarin

Jean-Marc Quarin

Couleur sombre, intense, pourpre. Nez très aromatique, fin, subtil et noble qui évoque château Margaux. Bouche à l'incroyable minutie tactile, qui ne cesse de caresser le palais, avec un éclat dans la saveur que je n'ai jamais vu à cet âge. Grande longueur au grain fin. Assemblage : 70 % cabernet sauvignon, 26 % merlot, 2 % cabernet franc, 1 % carmenère, 1 % petit verdot. Degré d'alcool : 13°7 - pH : 3,71 (moyenne) - IPT : 90, un record puisque la moyenne est 78. Production : 36 % de la récolte. Depuis quelques années la proportion de cabernet sauvignon dans Brane Cantenac monte. De plus, son origine change. Il provient maintenant intégralement de la terrasse IV, ce qui peut expliquer cette dimension aromatique. Ce vin sera élevé en 100 % fûts neufs comme le sont les premiers crus.

98

James Suckling

James Suckling

Blackberries, plums, currants, tobacco and violets on the nose. Bitter chocolate and mocha, too. It’s refined and focused, with a medium to full body and firm, tightly-knit tannins. Very long, laser-focused and polished. Very classy. Best of the trilogy. Try after 2027 11/2023