Chateau Branaire Ducru 2011 (1x75cl)

With dense fruit and a powerful, complex structure, this is one of the best wines from this chateau. Blackberries, black plums and a rich, generous character are all here, along with fine tannins. Drink this great success from 2018.

A top-notch effort from this estate, the 2011 exhibits an exotic perfume of lead pencil shavings, white chocolate, raspberry jam and red as well as black currants. Loads of fruit, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel and velvety tannin suggest this beauty will drink well for 15 years. It is one of the stars of the appellation in this vintage. Bravo!

Offers mouthfilling layers of plum sauce, blackberry compote and warm ganache, all lined with a charcoal note that adds texture and length. Delivers depth and polish on the finish, with the fruit echoing pleasantly. Best from 2016 through 2027.

This is tight and structured, with blueberry and mineral character. Full and firm with excellent tannins for the vintage. Needs at least four years to soften but shows potential: try in 2018.