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Long-term Pre-arrival Items
Long Term Pre-arrival Definition: Ordering wine directly through us from our supplier partners in Europe in advance of the item’s physical arrival in the US.
Long Term Pre-arrival sales ensure you’re getting the best possible price and that you have also secured the product before it hits the normal retail supply chain. The lead time for Pre-arrival goods is generally 4–8 months, sometimes longer based on supply chain and the logistics of transporting goods overseas. The expectation, from our team, is to communicate to the customer the location of their purchase every step of the way.
This product is offered as a full case purchase option, minimum order quantities may be applicable. When available, multiple case options will be presented. If you are purchasing a Pre-Arrival item you must order a solid case.
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Sample image only.Please see Item description for product Information. When ordering, the item shipped will match the product listing if there are any discrepancies. Do not order solely on the label if you feel it does not match product description.
SKU 983924
$365.85/case
$121.95/bottle
Tariffs included
Out of stock
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Barrel sample. Full of ripe Cabernet tannins, this is a structured wine that’s chunky in character. It elegantly balances fruit and structure, resulting in a wine that’s sure to be impressive.
There are few regions in the world with stricter regulations in regards to wine production and grape varietals than those found in Bordeaux, France. Here, in the home of the world's finest wines, the type and quality of grapes used is of utmost importance, and the legendary wineries which work on the banks of the Gironde river have mastered the careful art of juice blending to find the perfect balance for their produce. Whilst there are six 'official' Bordeaux grapes, the two key varietals for almost every fine Bordeaux wine are Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and with good reason. Whilst Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are renowned for their acidity and astringency, strong fruit and spice flavors and full body, Merlot grapes are notably rounded, soft, fleshy and lighter on tannin. The combination of these two varietals, along with a small percentage of (commonly) Petit Verdot or Cabernet Franc, is the perfect balancing act – the two grape varietals cancel out each others weaker points, and accentuate all that is good about the other.
France, often regarded as the heart of the wine world, boasts a rich history, diverse terroirs, and a captivating variety of grape varietals. From the renowned vineyards of Bordeaux to the picturesque landscapes of Burgundy, France offers a wine lover’s dream journey. Whether you’re new to the world of wine or a seasoned enthusiast looking […]
Bordeaux: The Pinnacle of Terroir Expression In the illustrious realm of wine, Bordeaux stands as a beacon of excellence, where history, tradition, and terroir converge to create some of the world’s most iconic wines. Bordeaux’s rich mosaic of vineyards is characterized by the left bank, right bank, and the sweet symphony of Sauternes. Each of […]
Saint-Julien, a revered appellation in Bordeaux's Left Bank, epitomizes the finesse and elegance of red Bordeaux wines. Nestled between Pauillac and Margaux, Saint-Julien boasts a remarkable concentration of classified growths, showcasing wines that marry power with refinement. What makes Saint-Julien unique is its well-balanced terroir—gravelly soils, proximity to the Gironde estuary, and a temperate maritime climate. These factors nurture the cultivation of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, resulting in wines celebrated for their structured tannins, expressive aromatics, and age-worthiness.
Saint-Julien's notable châteaux, such as Léoville-Las Cases and Ducru-Beaucaillou, exemplify the region's commitment to quality. The wines exhibit a harmonious blend of dark fruits, cedar, and subtle minerality. Exploring Saint-Julien unveils the essence of Bordeaux winemaking, where tradition and innovation converge to produce wines of timeless allure and sophistication.
WE95pts
Wine Enthusiast
Barrel sample. Full of ripe Cabernet tannins, this is a structured wine that's chunky in character. It elegantly balances fruit and structure, resulting in a wine that's sure to be impressive.
DC92pts
Decanter
Lovely herb and flower scents on the nose, a signature of the estate with chocolate powder, toast, caramel, cinnamon alongside sour cherries and caramelised red berries. Round, juicy and so alive on the palate, really quite bouncy with lift, excellent acidity and a lot of liquorice spice - all nicely balanced and in its place. I love the lively and joyful start and more serious ending you have here - the two playing with each other giving texture and nuance with a sweet and savoury succulence that is so seductive. A top buy and the bottle that will empty the fastest today - wonderful drinkability!
JS91pts
James Suckling
A clean and fresh wine with blueberry, mineral and floral character. Medium to full body, fine tannins and a crisp finish. This is a very refined and beautiful Branaire. Better in 2017. (Suckling)
WA90pts
Wine Advocate
Deep ruby/purple, with sweet cranberry, mulberry and raspberry/blueberry fruit, this is always a distinctive St.-Julien and the 2012 has managed to avoid any of the hollowness or harsh tannins that can afflict some of the Médocs. It is elegant, well-made and an outstanding effort in this vintage. Drink it over the next 15 or more years.
WS90pts
Wine Spectator
Bay leaf and tobacco notes are backed by a core of damson plum, black cherry and red currant fruit. The bay leaf edge underlines the finish, with a hint of violet and a well-buried iron accent. An elegant expression of St.-Julien. Best from 2017 through 2024.
VM90pts
Vinous Media
The 2012 Branaire-Ducru has a very lifted bouquet with vibrant black fruit, raspberry preserve, cedar and tobacco. There is something quite Pauillac-like about the 2012 as veins of graphite begin to surface. The palate is medium-bodied with vibrant black fruit tinged with boysenberry and black olive. It feels quite compact towards the second half, for Branaire-Ducru showing more density than recent vintages, but there is good balance here with a saline finish. Give this Saint-Julien another three or four years. Very fine. Tasted at the property.
1.5Ltr
