Chateau Branaire-Ducru St. Julien 2016 Rated 96WS

Wine Spectator Review
Rated 96
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. Best from 2024 through 2039.

Château Branaire-Ducru Saint-Julien 2016

A benchmark Left Bank classic, Château Branaire-Ducru 2016 delivers precision, purity, and beautifully sculpted structure—one of the estate's finest modern vintages.
This Fourth Growth Saint-Julien shines with its hallmark elegance, vibrant fruit, and refined tannins, showcasing the exceptional balance of the 2016 Bordeaux harvest.

Key Details

• Producer: Château Branaire-Ducru
• Region: Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France
• Classification: 4ème Grand Cru Classé (1855)
• Vintage: 2016
• Grapes: 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc
• ABV: 13.5%
• Style: Elegant, structured, polished Left Bank claret

Tasting Notes

• Blackcurrant, blackberry, and plum
• Notes of graphite, violets, and cedar
• Hints of tobacco leaf, spice, and subtle cocoa
• Silky yet firm tannins with vibrant acidity
• Long, refined finish with classic Saint-Julien finesse

Profile & Craft

• From one of the most consistently elegant estates in Saint-Julien
• 2016 vintage celebrated for purity, balance, and aging potential
• Meticulous vineyard management and precise vinification
• A standout bottle for collectors of refined, terroir-driven Bordeaux

Serving & Pairing

• Decant 1-2 hours for optimal expression
• Pairs with roast lamb, duck, ribeye, mushroom dishes, and aged cheeses
• Drink now with decanting or cellar 10-25 years for further evolution
• Ideal for Bordeaux enthusiasts seeking elegance over power