Although a well-known appellation, Margaux has not been the most highly regarded among Bordeaux regions with the exception of just a few estates. However, quality within the region has been improving over the last decade or so and certain winemakers are gaining in reputation while still representing a great value, among them Brane-Cantenac. This 1996 Grand Cru Saint Estephe is a third-growth Margaux and was rated a 90 by Wine Spectator, describing aromas of blackberry and hints of licorice and light wood. Full-bodied, with juicy tannins and cedar, plum and coffee aftertaste. Robert Parker, reviewing this wine almost a decade ago, said that it exhibits a bit of lightening to its dark garnet/ruby color and very fragrant aromas of cedar, tobacco leaf, as well as black currants and some licorice. Medium-bodied with some sweet tannin, excellent purity, and a nicely textured, mid-weight finish. This wine is in the drinking window Parker recommended. In fact, a recent cellartracker.com member said that it was drinking very well right now, describing telltale bordeaux notes of tobacco and leather on the nose and palate. Elegant with nice complexity, very well balanced with a nice finish. I've had this wine several times over the past few years and it just keeps getting better.