Tasting Notes
Vinous 87
The 1997 Brane-Cantenac was picked September 11 to October 2 at 47hl/ha. As I have found with previous bottles, the bouquet is missing vigor and fruit, offering dusty old attic and antique bureau aromas and a little hollow overall. The palate is medium-bodied with light tannin and perhaps a touch more flesh than I anticipated. Perhaps because my expectations were low, I found more to compliment than I presupposed. There is a pleasant salinity here, and black pepper and a touch of clove toward the satisfying finish. This is probably the best bottle I have encountered. Don t write this off. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the chateau.
Anticipated maturity: 2018-2028
Wine Advocate 85
Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the chateau, the 1997 Brane-Cantenac, a blend of 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 49% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, has a rather lean and leafy bouquet that lacks requisite fruit intensity. The palate is actually better than the nose, underpinned by dry tannins, dried herbs and an attenuated finish. It is perfectly drinkable but it feels too lightweight. Drink up, if you have not done so already. Tasted March 2016.
Anticipated maturity: 2016-2020
