Château Brane-Cantenac 2emé Cru Classé, Margaux, 2018, 75cl

The 2018 Brane-Cantenac is medium to deep garnet-purple in color, leaping from the glass with vibrant notes of kirsch, black raspberries and warm cassis, plus suggestions of roses, forest floor and cinnamon stick with a waft of cedar chest. The medium-bodied palate is wonderfully elegant and refreshing, weighing in at just 13.5% alcohol, while not skimping on the interplay of red and black fruits. It has lovely soft tannins and a long, perfumed finish. Impressive!- Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate

Aromas of mushroom, meat, bark and iodine with blackberries and blackcurrants, following through to a full body with firm, creamy tannins that give structure and form to the wine. Tight on the finish. Long and persistent with presence. Drink after 2025.

Dark ruby, purple reflections, DELICATE rim brightening. Delicately savory UNDERLAY/BACKGROUND of fresh heart cherries, candied orange zest, some nougat, mineral touch. Juicy, red wild berryish fruit, fresh acidity, fine, integrated tannins, a lively companion at the table, already accessible and well developed. (2020-2040)

This is now performing as one of the top Margaux estates. Their latest release shows structure, elegant black fruits and rich tannins. Densely textured and vibrantly fruity, the wine has a fine future. Drink from 2027. Roger Voss

Red-ruby with vivid reflections, still young, primary with fully ripe berry fruits, set off by crayon, graphite, pomegranate and liquorice, nowhere near its drinking window. Great quality, takes the foot off the pedal when it needs to. Harvest September 17 to October 11, 45.1hl/h yield, 70% new French oak for ageing, 3.78ph, excellent summer after tough mildew pressure early in the season. Eric Boissenot consultant, Henri Lurton owner, Christophe Capdeville technical director.