Region: Saint-Julien, Bordeaux
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot
Vintage: 2018
Country: France
The Wine
A Fourth Growth of Saint-Julien, Branaire-Ducru in 2018 delivers both ripeness and classical structure. Cabernet Sauvignon leads the charge, bringing cassis, dark plum and graphite, while Merlot rounds the mid-palate with polish. The vintage warmth is balanced by freshness and beautifully judged tannins.
Cellared Says
This is proper claret. Powerful yet composed, with cedar, tobacco leaf and dark berries unfolding through a long, confident finish. It shows the generosity of 2018, but remains unmistakably Saint-Julien in its restraint and poise. Drink from the late 2020s or cellar comfortably into the 2040s.
Wine Reviews
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. Try after 2026.
97 Points – James Suckling
“Dense and rich, yet with a deceptively smooth texture… impressive structure beneath.”
95 Points – Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast
“A long finish with lovely purity and freshness.”
93 Points – Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
Region: Saint-Julien, Bordeaux
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot
Vintage: 2018
Country: France
The Wine
A Fourth Growth of Saint-Julien, Branaire-Ducru in 2018 delivers both ripeness and classical structure. Cabernet Sauvignon leads the charge, bringing cassis, dark plum and graphite, while Merlot rounds the mid-palate with polish. The vintage warmth is balanced by freshness and beautifully judged tannins.
Cellared Says
This is proper claret. Powerful yet composed, with cedar, tobacco leaf and dark berries unfolding through a long, confident finish. It shows the generosity of 2018, but remains unmistakably Saint-Julien in its restraint and poise. Drink from the late 2020s or cellar comfortably into the 2040s.
Wine Reviews
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. Try after 2026.
97 Points – James Suckling
“Dense and rich, yet with a deceptively smooth texture… impressive structure beneath.”
95 Points – Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast
“A long finish with lovely purity and freshness.”
93 Points – Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
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