#16 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2019

Château Branaire-Ducru 2016 is a distinguished wine from the Saint-Julien appellation in Bordeaux, France. As a Fourth Growth estate classified in 1855, Château Branaire-Ducru is renowned for producing wines that exemplify the elegance and complexity characteristic of this prestigious region.

Blend Composition:

• Cabernet Sauvignon: 64%

• Merlot: 27%

• Petit Verdot: 6%

• Cabernet Franc: 3%

Tasting Notes:

• Color: Deep, vibrant ruby.

• Aroma: An expressive bouquet of ripe plum and blueberry, complemented by notes of violet, graphite, and subtle oak nuances.

• Palate: Medium to full-bodied with a refined structure, offering flavors of mulberries, blackberries, saddle leather, and forest floor. Hints of graphite emerge with time, leading to a finish marked by fine-grained tannins and balanced acidity.

Serving Suggestions:

• Temperature: Serve at 16-18°C (60-64°F).

• Decanting: Decant for 1-2 hours before serving to allow the wine to open up and reveal its full complexity.

• Food Pairings: Complements dishes such as roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, and aged cheeses.

Cellaring Potential:

• This wine has excellent aging potential and can be enjoyed now or cellared for further development over the next 15-20 years.