Branaire Ducru 2017 (750ML)

91-94 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2017 Branaire-Ducru offers lovely depth and density. The characteristic dark red/purplish fruit character of Brainaire comes through beautifully. As always, Branaire is a wine of polish and finesse. Stylistically, the 2017 comes across as a smaller scaled and more accessible version of the 2015. If that sounds appealing, well, it is. The 2017 is really quite lovely. Tasted three times." 5/18.

91-93 Points, Neal Martin, Vinous: "The 2017 Branaire Ducru was picked 13 September until 4 October over a three-week period, cropped at 39.6hl/ha. The alcohol here is 13.2°. The wine is aged in 60% new oak, which is how the sample was made. It has a harmonious bouquet with brambly black fruit, melted tar and tobacco scents, not powerful but precise. The palate is medium-bodied with a smooth texture, fine tannin, just a subtle savory note developing and merging nicely with the black fruit, hints of white pepper and cedar towards the poised finish that is quintessential Saint-Julien. There is an essence of drinkability about this Branaire-Ducru and I can imagine this being approachable after three to four years. This is a very fine Branaire-Ducru." 5/18.

92-93 Points, James Suckling: "This is very tight and focused with a precise depth of blackberry and blueberry fruit. Full body, melted tannins and a fresh and vivid finish. Shows a compacted style." 4/18

90-93 Points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator: "The plum and cherry paste flavors show good energy, with floral lift and sleek graphite accents adding to the sense of range and definition. Well done." 4/18

91-93 Points, Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast: "Barrel Sample. Crisp fruit and intense acidity are the hallmarks of this bright wine. Its tannins are a backdrop to the nervy fruit character and vein of minerality and refreshing acidity. Drink from 2023." 4/18.

90-92 Points, Jeb Dunnuck, www.jebdunnuck.com: "The deep purple-colored 2017 Château Branaire-Ducru offers a fresh, focused, classic style in 2017. Beautiful spring flowers, black and blue fruits, and a kiss of minerality all emerge from this medium-bodied effort that has nicely integrated acidity, a balanced, clean texture, and plenty of mid-palate depth. My money is on this ending up being an outstanding wine." 4/18.