Branaire Ducru 2004

Possessing the finest aromatics of all the 2004 St.-Juliens, Branaire Ducru offers complex licorice, cranberry, boysenberry, and floral notes interwoven with notions of plums and figs. This dark ruby/purple-tinged, medium-bodied, elegant effort offers sweet fruit as well as ripe tannins. Give it 1-3 years of bottle age and drink it over the following 14 -15.

Extremely aromatic, with currants and blackberries, hints of minerals and lightly toasted oak. Medium- to full-bodied and chewy, with lots of rich tannins and a long finish. Very pretty, very long.

Proprietor Patrick Maroteaux’s 2004 exhibits grip in a linear style, and a structured, 1999-type personality with elegance, crisp acidity, and notes of minerals, raspberries, cocoa, and subtle oak. It possesses moderate tannin, medium body, and outstanding depth and equilibrium. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2020.

Always a distinctive, fragrant St.-Julien offering a complex concoction of raspberries, cassis, violets, and minerals, the 2004 Branaire’s vibrant aromatics are accompanied by a dense ruby/purple color, medium body, plenty of fruit, sweet, well-integrated tannin, and a gracious, flavorful yet concentrated style. Enjoy this layered, classic effort between 2008-2020.