The 2002 Branaire Ducru was partly made with Philippe Dhalluin and Dominique Arangoïts, who said there was a lot of discussion about the blend at the time. It has an open-knit, earthy bouquet with black fruit, wild mint, singed leather and a touch of potpourri. The palate is medium-bodied with mainly red fruit, white pepper, clove, a slight grittiness to the tannins but with commendable depth and freshness towards the finish. Fine acidity and bite, this is a Saint-Julien that is à point. Tasted at the château. -- Neal Martin

The successful 2002 exhibits a beautiful dense ruby/purple color a lovely concoction of raspberries cassis flowers and licorice in the fragrant aromatics medium to full body surprising opulence for a 2002 and soft and supple tannin. A beauty it is ideal for drinking now and over the next 15+ years.