The second wine of Brane-Cantenac, the 2018 Baron De Brane is a blend of 60% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Carménère brought up in 25% new French oak. Another beautiful second wine (the vintage is packed with truly thrilling second wines), it offers a rounded, sexy profile as well as terrific notes of blackcurrants, spice box, and earth, with hints of graphite. Layered, silky and pure on the palate, it's an already delicious effort to drink over the coming decade or more.

Alluring lilac and black tea notes lead off, followed by a soft-edged mix of cherry and plum compote flavors, backed by singed sandalwood details on the finish.