2005 has the reputation of being the "vintage of the century" in Bordeaux. Indeed, all the climatic conditions were favourable to give birth to a great vintage: a season marked by a constant sunshine without excess of heat, and an alternation of hot days and cool nights in August and September which allowed the berries to obtain a magnificent quality.

The color is a very deep red, turning to a very bright tile.

The bouquet offers a lot of freshness and incredible complexity, with aromas of very ripe black cherry, cardamom, peppery spices and menthol. We also perceive a nice touch of truffle and undergrowth.

Very supple at the attack, it offers a surprisingly fine flesh, letting explode flavors of black fruits, cocoa and vanillin. The tannins are elegant and chiseled, contributing to its powerful evolution with great density. It melts on a creamy, long and spicy finish. One of the most beautiful references of Saint-Julien without any doubt.

Food and wine pairing:

Château Branaire-Ducru 2005 in double magnum will be marvelously appreciated with a tournedos Rossini, a rack of lamb confit, a truffled veal mignon cooked with string or a hare stew with grand veneur sauce. So many possibilities of food and wine pairing of the most tasty.

It will also be perfect with uncooked pressed cheeses such as Cantal, Edam, Morbier or Saint-Nectaire.

For dessert, enjoy it with a semi-cooked fondant, an opera cake or a three chocolate entremet.

Ageing potential and tasting:

Château Branaire-Ducru 2005 in double magnum can still wait in the cellar for several years, as the large capacity of the format allows the wine to acquire a greater potential for aging. Its peak will be reached between 2040 and 2045.

However, with proper bottle preparation, it can be wonderfully enjoyed today. To do so, place the bottle in the serving room the night before at a temperature ideally between 15 and 18°C and open it. Otherwise, open it and, if possible, decant it 5 to 6 hours before tasting.

The bottles will be kept in the cellar protected from light, lying down, at an optimal hygrometric degree of 70 %.