Unfortunately, there are only 500-600 cases of Branon produced from a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grown in a vineyard situated near Malartic-Lagraviere and Haut-Bailly. Much better than its stablemate Haut-Bergey, the 2011 Branon exhibits notes of camphor, barbecue smoke, black currants and blueberries. This intensely rich effort tastes of old vines, ink and graphite. This medium to full-bodied, rich Pessac-Leognan should drink well for 15 or more years.

Lifted cassis fruit, good clarity and depth but a shows a little greenness. Drink 2015-2020. (15.5 points)