Winemakers Notes
Brane Cantenac, an emblem of excellence Established in the 18th century under the name Gorce, this estate, nestled on the finest gravelly hillside in Cantenac, was already renowned as one of the Médoc's premier Second Growth vineyards well before the 1855 classification. In 1925, it was acquired by Léonce Récapet, the owner of Château Margaux. Subsequently, Lucien Lurton, his grandson, assumed ownership in 1956, followed by Henri Lurton, the fourth generation custodian. Spanning an expansive 75 hectares of vines, the vineyard is among the largest in Margaux. Its foundation lies in deep, mineral-rich gravel soils, which naturally facilitate impeccable drainage. The "Plateau de Brane," comprising 30 hectares, undoubtedly ranks as one of Margaux AOC's most exceptional terroirs, alongside the gravelly hillsides of Margaux and Palmer. This estate is distinguished by its remarkable elegance, finesse, and the production of silky wines—a true symbol of quality and excellence within the realm of prestigious wines. A quintessential addition to any Margaux collection." One of our favorites in Margaux. Clearly one with the best potential, and a bright future. We love the finesse, the elegance and the fresh and delicate aromas that illustrate so well the appellation. The 2022 vintage is Henri Lurton's 30th vintage and probably of its greatest so far. The 2022 vintage - Legendary like 1945 and 1961 Henri Lurton tells you about the vintage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCbEZld48hw&list=PLez2o_cjTYvjsySqCHnCZInBCJKEJAAQC&index=10 "30 years ago, I succeeded my father.Today, I can only dedicate Brane-Cantenac 2022 to him, my greatest vintage… but not the last ! My father was one of the great winemakers in his generation and had a particular responsibility for this wine due to the 60 years old cabernet sauvignon vines he planted after the great frost of 1956. These wines, which I have carefully preserved through proper pruning, form the backbone of Brane-Cantenac 2022." Henri Lurton "Brane-Cantenac is, in my view, one of the most under-the-radar wines on the Left Bank. The 2022 is a stunner." Antonio Galloni, Vinous, 95-97pts