The Straightforward One
Château Branaire Ducru
AOC St-JulienRed wine
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
14%
Barrel
16°C
It loves dishes with structure, roasted aromas and a pinch of herbs that complement its cool precision. Pink lamb nut with thyme jus and ratatouille are particularly harmonious; a creamy polenta mushroom ragout with porcini mushrooms and fresh marjoram is a convincing vegetarian alternative.
The estate dates back to the 17th century, when Jean-Baptiste Braneyre acquired the vineyards; the name Ducru was added through marriage. Classified as a 4ème Grand Cru Classé in 1855, it now belongs to the Maroteaux family, who continue to refine the style with meticulous parcel work and a modern gravity cellar (since 2021): finesse, freshness and reliable ageing potential.
Dark ruby with a violet rim. On the nose, cassis, blackberry and black cherry, accompanied by violet, cedar wood, fine graphite, a hint of tobacco and dark cocoa. Straightforward and juicy on the palate with fine-grained, ripe tannins, cool freshness and taut tension. Long, precise finish with mineral notes and a spicy aftertaste.
Selective harvesting, fermentation by plot in a gravity cellar in temperature-controlled tanks with moderate extraction. Aged for approx. 16–18 months in French oak, around 60–65% new, for structure, finesse and length.
The vines are planted on the Garonne gravel terraces of Saint-Julien with sandy-clay subsoil, near the Gironde. Excellent drainage and the moderating river climate promote deep roots, cool ripening and the characteristic graphite-like character.
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