Chateau Branaire-Ducru Bordeaux Red Blend 2018
Description
Winemaker Notes
The nose, which is already very expressive, shows a nice complexity of ripe fruit, well balanced by fresher notes. The intensity of the bouquet develops with aeration and the oak is already well integrated. The first impression on the palate is one of silky roundness with impressive volume, overlaying extremely fine tannins. The wine develops slowly and gradually on the palate, following its logical path to a voluptuous mid-palate with beautiful density: always refined – never overpowering. The aromatic complexity, and delicious acidity are omni-present with a lovelylong-lasting fruit finish ensuring freshness and lift. The house style of Branaire-Ducru is very evident in the 2018 vintage: expressive fruit, great finesse and balance, wonderful freshness, but always with exceptional depth, density and refinement.
Blend: 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 4% Cabernet Franc
Critical Acclaim
Very attractive aromas of currants, tile and sandalwood with black and red currants. It’s full-bodied with a tight, dense center-palate that remains closed in and tight. Yet there is underlying seriousness and length to this. Perhaps the greatest Branaire-Ducru ever made. Try after 2026.
Barrel Sample: 93-96
A deceptively smooth texture and black fruits hide a wine that has great density and richness. Firm tannins lie beneath the ripeness. They will allow this wine to age, giving future concentration and depth. Drink the wine from 2027. Multiple U.S. importers. Cellar Selection
A beautiful Saint-Julien, the 2018 Château Branaire-Ducru reveals a deep purple color as well as ample, earthy cassis and blackberry fruits intermixed with sous bois, earth, lead pencil, and cedar. With that classic Saint-Julien pure fruit, sumptuous aromas and flavors, sweet yet present tannins, and a solid spine of acidity, it's going to need 5-7 years to hit maturity yet should keep for 20-25 years or more. I don't think it's going to match the blockbuster 2009 (it's more in the pretty, elegant style of the 2016), but it's a gorgeous, elegant wine you will love to have in the cellar.
The 2018 Branaire-Ducru has a medium to deep garnet-purple color and an upfront, expressive nose of baked black plums, boysenberries and Morello cherries with an undercurrent of dried mint, spice box and underbrush. Medium to full-bodied, the palate packs a very pleasant fruit wallop, featuring juicy black fruits and a firm, grainy frame, finishing long with lovely purity.
A little subdued, this has firm tannic hold, clear raspberry, blackberry and cassis fruits, along with hawthorn, brambles and touches of black pepper. Young and will go the distance, though lacks a little magic. Drinking Window 2026 - 2040
Local Delivery/Pickup Only - Not available for shipping outside of Dayton OH
Crafted from carefully selected vineyards, this wine showcases a refined balance
of ripe fruit, elegant tannins, and subtle oak notes. Every bottle is produced
using traditional winemaking techniques to preserve the authentic character of
the grapes and the unique terroir of the region.
Perfect for both casual evenings and special occasions, this wine delivers a
smooth finish with layers of blackberry, plum, vanilla, and delicate spice.
Enjoy now or cellar for additional complexity.
- Wine Type: Red Wine
- Grape Variety: Merlot
- Country: France
- Region: Bordeaux
- Alcohol: 13.5%
- Bottle Size: 750ml
- Vintage: 2021
- Closure: Natural Cork
- Serving Temperature: 16–18°C
Orders are processed within 1–2 business days. Standard delivery typically
arrives within 3–7 business days depending on your location.
All bottles are securely packaged to ensure safe delivery. If your order
arrives damaged, please contact us within 48 hours with photos of the package
and product.
Due to alcohol regulations, returns are accepted only for damaged or incorrect
items.
Local pickup is available during our regular business hours.
Once your order is ready, you will receive an email notification with pickup
instructions.
Please bring your order confirmation and a valid government-issued ID when
collecting your purchase.
Crafted from select vineyards, this Merlot offers rich aromas of blackberry,
plum, and dark cherry balanced by subtle vanilla and oak notes. Smooth tannins
and a long finish make it perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special
occasions.
Pairs Well With
Grilled Meats
Cheese
Pasta
Dark Chocolate