Haut-Bailly II Pessac-Léognan 2023 - Second vin

The nose is fragrant and very floral—rose, violet, and peony mingle with raspberry and red cherry. Supple and smooth, this wine exudes a silky elegance. The slightly powdery tannins lend it some structure and slightly overpower the fruit, but the fruit is ripe, and a minty freshness in the background lends it a lovely liveliness. There is also a certain depth to it. An excellent second wine, fuller-bodied than some, with a rich texture and a very pleasant smoothness. Though somewhat light overall, it is nonetheless typical of Haut-Bailly: elegant, with woody and spicy notes, and hints of cedar and bitter licorice on the finish. pH: 3.75. Aged for 12 months, 30% new oak. 2027–2038

 

“With its distinctive and utterly charming style, this estate—acquired in 1998 by American banker Robert Wilmers—produces a wine of unique integrity and class. Véronique Sanders, the former owner’s granddaughter, carefully manages the day-to-day operations of this classified growth alongside the highly competent technical director, Gabriel Vialard. She produces a harmonious and supremely balanced red wine here, adhering to Bordeaux traditions without ever overdoing it in an attempt to overshadow the wines’ very natural profile. The terroir of gravel over iron-rich clay allows the wines to develop a highly seductive bouquet of morello cherries and a velvety texture unmatched in this part of Léognan. It is very difficult to find fault with a single vintage: all of them, with an inimitable, long, and refined style, achieve excellence. A word of caution to overly impatient enthusiasts: like any great wine worth its salt, Haut-Bailly can be austere in its youth. It truly reveals itself only after a few years of aging.”

Haut-Bailly II 2023 is full-bodied, juicy, and well-structured. Notes of crushed flowers, red cherry and plum, tobacco, cedar, dried herbs, and mint enhance this silky, elegant wine from Haut-Bailly. The floral top notes resurface to enhance the finish. The very essence of Haut-Bailly. 2028–2043

You’ll want to take a deep breath of this wine’s aroma to capture all its notes of grains, fresh flowers, and fresh yeast. On the palate, the texture takes center stage—as voluptuous and indulgent as ever, true to its older sibling—with a savory finish. 2026–2036

The finesse, freshness, and depth of the bouquet evoke a sense of serenity! The woodiness is noticeable, but it plays its intended role: to enhance the present aromas. Smooth and briny on the attack, the wine gathers its energy and carries it across the palate. The whole is underpinned by a solid foundation that combines vigor, character, and austerity. A well-mannered teenager who still needs to finish tidying his room. A little patience is required. 2028–2040