2014 Chateau Branaire Ducru
By Chateau Branaire Ducru
2014 Chateau Branaire Ducru, St-Julien, Bordeaux, France
In the often underappreciated constellation of Bordeaux’s 2014 vintage, the 2014 Chateau Branaire Ducru from Chateau Branaire Ducru, nestled within the prestigious confines of St-Julien, radiates with a brightness worthy of attention from seasoned investors and oenophiles. This particular year weaves a narrative of challenge and triumph, as Bordeaux contended with capricious weather that ultimately culminated in a season notably rewarding for the diligent vintner.
A Vintage Spun From Silver Linings
The effect on the 2014 harvest in St-Julien was far from monolithic, with each chateau telling its own tale of adaptive viticulture and vinification. The strength of Chateau Branaire Ducru, however, is evinced in its capacity to conjure elegance from adversity. Capturing the subtle interplay between climatic trials and enological expertise, the 2014 vintage from this esteemed house offers an intriguing investment prospect; it's a strong performer amidst an assortment of quiet achievers.
Analysing Autumns Gift
Late sunshine graced the Bordeaux region after a summer flirtation with mediocrity, coaxing out a depth of ripeness that defines the 2014 release from Chateau Branaire Ducru. On the palate, one discerns layers of blackcurrant and ripe plum entwined with hints of cedarwood - hallmarks magnified by this unexpectedly gracious autumn. Tannins that speak more of silk than sinew provide an exquisitely structured framework for the dark fruit medley.
The finish - lengthy, composed, and with suggestions of spice-box - suggests potential for sophisticated evolution over coming years. Investment-wise, this positions the 2014 Chateau Branaire Ducru as a wine with both immediate appeal and the promise of growing prestige.
In summing up, this exemplar of St-Julien proves that within every wine investment portfolio dedicated to Bordeaux, space must be afforded to those vintages like 2014 which, despite shying away from bombastic acclaim, convey quality through measured finesse and unwavering constancy. The 2014 Chateau Branaire Ducru is undeniably one such wine, offering the discerning investor a smart acquisition for both palate and cellar.Current market price
$720.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
35.83
Scores and tasting notes
No tasting note available.
James Suckling - Jamesuckling.com (04/2015)
No tasting note available.
Wine Spectator - The Wine Spectator
No tasting note available.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate
No tasting note available.
Tim Atkin - TimAtkin.com (04/2015)
The 2014 Branaire-Ducru offers a mixture of red and black fruit on the nose, suffused with tobacco and pleasant undergrowth aromas, perhaps just missing the precision of the Beychevelle at the moment. The palate is supple on the entry with a slightly grainy texture, the acidity well judged, a little edginess towards the finish that just needs to must more depth, more drive. Not bad for the vintage, although I would like to see some improvement in bottle. Tasted twice with consistent notes.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 31 March 2017
No tasting note available.
Jancis Robinson - JancisRobinson.com