2012 Château Brane-Cantenac, Margaux, Bordeaux

In my view, Henri Lurton's wonderfully understated Second Growth is one of the most consistent wines of the Médoc. Never forced or pushed, it is a true and usually close-to-perfect expression of the vintage. 2012 is no exception, with the vintage conditions determining the cépage and over 30% of the blend provided by rich and succulent Merlot. Delicate pepper and ripe cherries are lifted by a beautiful crunch of warm and voluminous fruit, while the finish is very elegant and long, with waves of expressive red fruits, making this another fine effort.

Jake Dean, Director of UK & Ireland, Berry Bros. & Rudd