JD
92
Jeb Dunnuck
A classic, elegant Margaux based on roughly 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot (I don't know the exact blend), the 2018 Château Cantenac Brown offers up a pretty perfume of red and black currants, sandalwood, dried flowers, and cedar pencil. It's not the most powerful or concentrated wine in the vintage, yet it has fine tannins as well as a wonderfully balanced, classical style. I suspect it will benefit from just short-term cellaring and keep for 20-25 years. Reviewed by: Jeb Dunnuck, Issue date: March 2021. Drinking window: 2021 - 2046.
RP
92
Robert Parker Wine Advocate
Rating (92)+ The 2018 Cantenac Brown has a medium to deep garnet-purple color, wafting gently out of the glass with fragrant scents of redcurrant jelly, Morello cherries, plum preserves and fresh blackcurrants, plus suggestions of red roses, cedar chest and pencil lead. The medium-bodied palate (13.5% declared alcohol) has a sturdy frame of grainy tannins and plenty of freshness supporting the delicately styled red and black fruit flavors, finishing savory. Reviewed by: Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Issue date: May 2021. Drinking window: 2024 - 2044.
V
94
Vinous
The 2018 Cantenac Brown, which I had recently tasted as part of my horizontal, here replicates that performance. Very pure on the nose, perphaps a little more opulence than the pervious bottle, this is beautifully defined with subtle tobacco scents percolating through the black fruit. The palate is medium-bodied, harmonious and extra supple with great tension towards the finish. This is quintessential Margaux and a superb wine from winemaker Jose Sanfins. Tasted at the Cantenac Brown vertical at the chateau. Reviewed by: Neal Martin, Issue date: June 2021. Drinking window: 2025 - 2050.