Chateau Brane-Cantenac hails from Margaux’s

Chateau Brane-Cantenac 2017

This classic Bordeaux red blend hails from Margaux’s prestigious left bank, best decanted up to 2 hours before serving. The wine bursts with aromas of cranberry, blackberry, cassis, eucalyptus, and cigar smoke. Composed mainly of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, plus hints of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it showcases deep color and spicy complexity. Owned by the Lurton family for generations, the estate sits atop a prime gravelly plateau. On tasting, expect vibrant raspberry, blackcurrant, and plum flavors with firm, grainy tannins and a structured backbone that promises excellent aging. Oak, dried flowers, dark chocolate, and sweet spice notes linger through a long finish. Ideal paired with rich French dishes like duck à l’orange, steak au poivre, or beef stew.

Chateau Brown 2021

Founded during the late Middle Ages, Chateau Brown was named after John Lewis Brown, a Scottish wine trader who settled in Bordeaux in the 18th century. After periods of decline, it was revived by the Mau family, renowned Bordeaux merchants since 1897. The 29-hectare Pessac-Léognan estate focuses on Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with a touch of Petit Verdot. The 2021 vintage was fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats and aged 12-16 months in 40% new French oak barrels. This robust red offers aromas of dark cherry, crushed berries, menthol, and dried herbs, followed by a full-bodied palate with punchy tannins and solid structure. Best enjoyed now with hearty red meats or game such as venison or wild boar.

Chateau Brown Blanc 2023

Chateau Brown Blanc, a classic white Bordeaux, is typically a blend of 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Semillon from estate vines. The grapes are fermented in small, temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to retain freshness and varietal character, followed by 8 months aging in 50% new French oak barrels. The 2023 vintage shows a light golden color with aromas of freshly cut grass, dried herbs, and bright green apple. On the palate, it delivers lively acidity, a light body, and a clean finish with hints of ripe pear, citrus, and baked apple. Perfect chilled as an aperitif or paired with leafy salads, roast chicken, or grilled fish.

Chateau Cantemerle Haut Medoc 2017

Decant for about an hour before serving. Chateau Cantemerle, with roots dating back to medieval lords, is a Grand Cru Classé vineyard in Haut-Médoc. Its 90 hectares rest on gravel and silica soils producing an elegant blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, and 4% Petit Verdot from 30-year-old vines. Aged 12 months in 40% new French oak, the wine reveals a deep ruby color with aromatic intensity featuring cherries, currants, and floral notes. The palate is juicy, dense, with round tannins and a vegetal hint, finishing fruitily. This well-structured wine pairs wonderfully with roast veal with chanterelles and grilled red meats.

Chateau Cantenac Brown 2016

Situated in the southern Margaux appellation, Chateau Cantenac Brown covers 42 hectares across several communes. Its terroir features typical Médoc quartz gravel soils that ensure excellent drainage and heat retention for optimal Cabernet Sauvignon ripening. The wine is predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot for color and softness. After fermentation, it is aged in French oak barrels, 60% new and the rest one-year-old, for a refined expression of Margaux. Decanting for about an hour is advised.

Chateau Carbonnieux Blanc 2023

One of Bordeaux’s oldest estates dating back to the 12th century, Chateau Carbonnieux is renowned for its white wines. The 2023 vintage blends about two-thirds Sauvignon Blanc and one-third Semillon, fermented in oak barrels and aged 10 months. This elegant white bursts with ripe stone fruits, bright citrus, and delicate notes of cut grass and dried herbs. Its historic fame includes being served in the Sultan of Constantinople’s palace disguised as “mineral water” to bypass the alcohol ban. Serve chilled to enjoy its fresh and fruity profile.