Description
1982 Château Branaire-Ducru – A Benchmark Bordeaux from a Legendary Vintage
The 1982 Château Branaire-Ducru comes from one of the most celebrated Bordeaux vintages of the 20th century. The 1982 growing season was marked by warm, dry conditions and an ideal harvest, allowing for excellent grape ripeness and tannin development. As a fourth-growth estate in the prestigious Saint-Julien appellation, Château Branaire-Ducru has long been known for producing refined and structured wines that age beautifully over time. The 1982 vintage is no exception, offering a mature and expressive profile after more than 40 years in the bottle.
At this stage, the 1982 Branaire-Ducru has developed a fascinating tertiary aroma profile, featuring dried plums, blackcurrant, licorice, and earthy forest floor notes, along with subtle hints of cedar, tobacco, and violets. The tannins, once firm in its youth, have softened into a smooth, velvety texture, creating a well-balanced and elegant drinking experience. A wine of this age should be decanted gently to remove sediment and served at 16-18°C (60-65°F) to fully showcase its nuanced flavors.
Pairing & Serving Suggestions
A mature Bordeaux like this pairs best with dishes that enhance its elegant and earthy characteristics. The 1982 Château Branaire-Ducru would pair beautifully with roast lamb with rosemary, beef tenderloin, or duck breast with a red wine reduction. Aged cheeses such as Comté, Gruyère, or a well-aged Cheddar also complement its depth and complexity.
For collectors and wine lovers, the 1982 Château Branaire-Ducru represents a rare opportunity to taste a Bordeaux from an iconic vintage that has stood the test of time. While it is well into its mature drinking phase, a well-cellared bottle can still provide an unforgettable experience, reflecting both the excellence of the 1982 vintage and the refined winemaking of Château Branaire-Ducru.
About Chateau Branaire Ducru Château Branaire-Ducru is a renowned wine estate located in the Saint-Julien appellation of the Bordeaux region in France. It is classified as a Fourth Growth (Quatrième Grand Cru Classé) in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, which highlights its longstanding reputation for quality. The estate spans approximately 60 hectares of vineyards, planted mainly with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Château Branaire-Ducru is celebrated for producing wines that are elegant, balanced, and complex, with a notable ability to age gracefully. The château, with a history dating back to the 17th century, has consistently been recognized for its commitment to traditional winemaking practices while also embracing modern techniques to enhance the quality of its wines.
Condition
Slightly damaged capsule. Slightly nicked label. Level: upper-shoulder