Chateau Branaire Ducru Duluc 2017

Chateau Branaire Ducru is located in the Saint-Julien appellation of the Medoc region in Bordeaux, France. Known for its exceptional terroir, Saint-Julien is renowned for producing wines with a balance of power and elegance, especially those made from the dominant Cabernet Sauvignon. The terroir here, with its gravelly soils and proximity to the Gironde Estuary, allows for excellent ripening conditions, producing wines with complexity and structure. Duluc de Branaire-Ducru offers a more accessible but still refined Bordeaux experience​.

The wine is a classic Bordeaux blend, predominantly made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes with smaller amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. This blend creates a wine that reflects the characteristic style of Saint-Julien, with ripe red fruit, structured tannins, and a balanced, yet concentrated body. The 2017 vintage offers the hallmark structure and depth of a Saint-Julien wine​. This wine is produced using traditional Bordeaux winemaking techniques. The grapes are carefully harvested, sorted, and fermented in stainless steel vats. After fermentation, the wine undergoes aging in French oak barrels, which adds complexity and enhances the integration of fruit and tannins.

The 2017 vintage presents a deep ruby colour with expressive aromas of blackberries, plums, and cassis, layered with hints of spices and cedar. On the palate, it is full-bodied, with smooth tannins, a rich texture, and balanced acidity. The wine finishes with a long, lingering flavour of ripe fruit and subtle earthy undertones.

It pairs beautifully with roast lamb, beef, and game, as well as mushroom-based dishes. It also complements grilled meats, duck, and hard cheeses. Serve at 16–18°C.