Chateau Brane Cantenac Bordeaux 2005

Balanced, elegant, understated, old school but resolutely full of grace. I wonder how many people today get excited by the quiet charm of this wine, but it certainly works for me. Will hang in there, and keep impressing over the years, like a 1970s Napa. Roses and raspberries, touch of campfire, broth, crushed mint, crayon, blackberry, understated and charming,with Margaux floral aromatics on the finish. It's not a bodybuilder, and yet there is a wiry frame and a mouthwatering finish. Harvest September 17 to October 10, 38.5hl/h yield, 3.64ph, 70% new French oak for ageing. Jacques Boissenot consultant, Henri Lurton owner and estate director, Christophe Capdeville technical director. Jane Anson