The 2022 Branaire-Ducru, a Bordeaux blend from the esteemed St. Julien sub-region of Bordeaux, France, has garnered exceptional reviews from wine experts. This vintage is noted for its outstanding quality and is hailed as one of the finest offerings from the Branaire-Ducru estate.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate praises it as "the finest young vintage" they've tasted from this estate, highlighting its "aromas of violets, blackberries, sweet cassis, licorice, and pencil shavings." The wine boasts a "medium to full-bodied, layered and multidimensional palate" and is framed by "supple tannins," concluding with a "long, mouthwatering finish" (William Kelley).
James Suckling also awards it a high score, noting the "fine and intense tannins" and flavors of "blackcurrants, black cherries, hints of chocolate and hazelnuts." He commends its "tight and focused fruit and a long and classy finish," describing it as having "fantastic definition" (James Suckling).
Jeff Leve calls this vintage "an entirely new level of quality," stating that it's "clearly the best vintage of Branaire Ducru ever produced." He highlights its "silky textures, creaminess, energy, and most importantly, purity of fruit and concentration" (Jeff Leve).
Vinous describes it as "refined and focused," with "plush red berry fruit, dried rose petals, and orange rind scents." The wine offers "freshness and purity" and a "sense of symmetry," making it an excellent example of a classic Saint-Julien (Neal Martin).
Decanter emphasizes the wine's "fragrant and expressive nose" and "silky but concentrated" texture. The publication notes its "succulent and juicy acidity" and "serious backbone and tension," praising its "excellent quality and drinkability" (Decanter).
Overall, the 2022 Branaire-Ducru is an exceptional Bordeaux blend, offering elegance, complexity, and a remarkable drinking experience. With high praise from multiple reviewers, it stands out as a must-try wine from this vintage.