Chateau Haut Brion 2019

The oldest of the Bordeaux Grand Crus, Château Haut-Brion boasts a rich legacy built over five centuries of history. Founded in 1533 by Jean de Pontac in the Graves region, the wines of Château Haut-Brion were soon coveted and appreciated by the greatest monarchs of Europe. A memorable vintage in every way, 2019 will also be very special for Château Haut-Brion as it is the 96th vintage produced by the Delmas family. 2019 is also the last vintage for Jean-Philippe Delmas' father, who has been at Château Haut-Brion for 43 harvests. 

Grape Varietals: 42% Cabernet Sauvignon, 46% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot

Wine Region: Pessac-Leognan, Bordeax, France

Tasting Notes: The 2019 Haut-Brion is a blend of 48.7% Merlot, 43.2% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8.1% Cabernet Franc, harvested from the 10th of September to the 3rd of October. The estimated label alcohol degree is 14.5%. Displaying a deep garnet-purple color, it comes off incredibly shy and reticent to begin, needing considerable coaxing to reveal notes of dark chocolate-covered cherries, blackberry preserves, woodsmoke and sandalwood, before launching into a full-scale fireworks display of iron ore, cumin seed, redcurrant jelly, red roses, oolong tea and Sichuan pepper scents plus a waft of cardamom. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers the most exquisitely ripe, finely grained tannins with a lively backbone of freshness supporting the tightly wound, earth-laced black fruit layers, finishing very long and minerally. This is one of the most finely structured, tightly knit wines of the vintage. Given time, I wouldn't be at all surprised if it goes atomic and eventually takes top place for the vintage 

Food Pairings: Rare grilled beef

Ratings: 

• Wine Advocate 98/100
• Jancis Robinson 18.5/20
• Decanter 98/100
• Wine Spectator 96/100
• James Suckling 100/100