A sleeper of the vintage from the backwater appellation of Moulis, the 2009 Branas Grand Poujeaux is a blend of 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Petit Verdot. A big-time wine, opaque purple in color, with loads of cassis, smoke, incense and licorice as well as an earthiness reminiscent of a St.-Estephe, this wine is full-bodied and long, with sweet tannin and an overall classic constitution. It can be approached now but should age nicely for 15-20 years. (A member of the Association of Crus Bourgeois du Medoc.)

Dense colour, good crunchy fruit, supple richness and good structure and length.