The 1999 Cantenac Brown is more closed on the nose with darker fruit than the Grand Puy-Lacoste, that Sanfins serves blind alongside, earthier aromas, sous-bois and fern. The palate is medium-bodied with very pliant tannins that provide a firm backbone. There is a fine bead of acidity, fresh and silky smooth with a cohesive, fleshy finish that demonstrates impressive clarity and persistence. A big surprise when this was revealed - perhaps better than the 2000 - this comes highly recommended. Tasted blind at the Cantenac Brown vertical at the château. -- Neal Martin

The dense ruby/purple-colored charming finesse-styled 1999 Cantenac Brown offers excellent sweetness medium body and abundant black currant fruit intermixed with truffle toasty oak and subtle dried herb notes. The wine possesses good tannin lively fruit and excellent purity as well as balance. It should drink well for 10-12 years.