Plenty of blackberry, blueberry, lead pencil and violet aromas here that follow through to a full body, with ultra-fine tannins that run the length of the wine. So integrated and polished. Changes a lot in the glass. Thoughtful young red. JS
Very pure and expressive, featuring lovely violet and cassis aromas and flavors that stream forth, backed by light anise and graphite hints. Maintains a fresh feel through the finish, with light minerality engaging with the fruit. Best from 2019 through 2028. WS
$ 680
Chateau Branaire-Ducru St Julien 4eme Cru 2016
RP
92-94
WS
96
JS
95
The core of this red is loaded with pure plum, blueberry and black currant fruit flavors. The polished structure is integrated, with alluring ganache, anise and sweet tobacco notes throughout, all in a polished and balanced frame. A very classy red that isn't shy about its power but pushes its purity to the fore. WS
$ 650
Chateau Branaire Ducru St Julien 4eme Cru 2015
RP
90
WS
94
JS
93
This pumps lush fig, boysenberry and blackberry confiture notes along, pushed by a rather polished but ample structure. Lots of anise and violet details cascade in on the finish, giving this extra aromatic dimension. WS
$ 610
Chateau Branaire-Ducru St Julien 4eme Cru 2018
RP
93
WS
94
JS
97
Very attractive aromas of currants, tile and sandalwood with black and red currants. It’s full-bodied with a tight, dense center-palate that remains closed in and tight. Yet there is underlying seriousness and length to this. Perhaps the greatest Branaire-Ducru ever made. JS
$ 550
Chateau Branaire-Ducru St Julien 4eme Cru 2017
WS
92
JS
91
A polished style, with a perfumed mesquite note draped over a core of plum and blackberry puree flavors. The finish lingers, with a mineral hint amid the fruit. Pure and aromatic. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. WS