From: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Ustaritz, Basque Country, France
Varietal: Tannat, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
Taste: In the glass, the wine shows a deep garnet hue with dark ruby edges. The nose opens with aromas of black cherry, crushed blackberry, and dried fig, layered with tobacco leaf, graphite, and a whiff of smoked herbs. On the palate, it is dense and firm, with tightly knit tannins and a core of blackcurrant, plum skin, and roasted espresso. Earthy undertones of iron and wet stone run beneath the fruit, framed by subtle cedar and dried thyme.
Pairing: This mountain red’s firm tannins and savory depth make it an ideal companion to protein-rich and herb-forward dishes. Look to dishes with char, umami, or root vegetables to match the wine’s structure. Duck leg confit with lentils is a classic pairing. It’s also excellent with mushrooms, especially porcini or shiitake, whether in a ragu or roasted with thyme and smoked paprika.
About: Brana is located in the small Basque town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port (also known as Donibane Garazi in its native Basque language), situated in the French Pyrénées near the border with Spain. Though best known for its fruit-based brandies and eaux-de-vie, the Brana family has become one of the key figures in the renaissance of the Irouléguy AOC, one of France’s smallest and most distinctive wine appellations.
