Chateau Branon, Pessac-Leognan, 2005

Micro-production Pessac-Léognan from just 6.5 hectares between Haut-Bailly and Malartic Lagravière. Sylvaine Garcin-Cathiard purchased this dilapidated property in 1996 and completely rebuilt it; her daughter Hélène now manages. 50% Merlot, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon on clay and gravel soils, south-southwest exposure. Fermented in small stainless steel vats, malolactic in barrel, aged 18 months in 100% new French oak. Only 500-600 cases per vintage. Unclassified in 1959, but neighbors include some of Graves' finest. The 2005 is fully mature.