2008 Branaire-Ducru, St-Julien (Pre-Arrival)

91-93+ points Robert Parker: "Sweet black raspberry and blueberry fruit intermixed with hints of acacia flowers and crushed rocks always provide Branaire with a distinctive perfume. In the mouth, there is impressive purity, a powerful yet elegant style, noticeable but sweet tannin, and nicely integrated acidity. The wood component is not apparent given the density and richness of the fruit. The 2008 should come close to rivaling the 2005, 2003, and 2000. Consume it over the next 20+ years." (04/09) 91-93 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Opaque purple-ruby. Very rich nose offers sweet blueberry syrup and blackberry jam aromas, with a topnote of nutmeg and crystallized ginger. Also quite spicy on the palate, where it boasts great purity to its blackberry and plum flavors. Quite concentrated and long, though it seems almost light thanks to wonderfully harmonious acids. Finishes with still youthful but very polished tannins and a late kick of cracked black pepper and smoked bacon. Owner Patrick Maroteaux feels this is one of the five best Branaires of the last 25 years and he won't get any argument from me." (May/June '09) Four Stars from Decanter: "Deep purple-red, finely lifted Cabernet nose, a little discreet but firm, good persistence on the palate, harmonious fruit, poised and elegant. Drink 2015." Please note - 2008 Bordeaux futures are not in stock, but will arrive between Jan 2011 and Dec 2011 We will contact you for shipping instructions.