2023 Haut Bailly II
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Tasting notes
Ripe black cherries, licorice, leafy tobacco, and graphite emerge from the 2023 Haut-Bailly II, a rocking second wine based on 64% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2% Petit Verdot aged 14 months in 30% new French oak. It's medium-bodied, round, supple, and elegant on the palate, with a good sense of freshness and ripe tannins. Drink this charming effort over the coming 15 years. Drink 2026-2041.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2023 Haut-Bailly II is plump, juicy and open-knit. Crushed flowers, red cherry/plum fruit, tobacco, cedar, dried herbs and mint are some of the notes that grace this silky, super-classy wine from Haut-Bailly. Floral top notes reappear to lift the close. The essence of Haut-Bailly.
The 2023 Haut-Bailly II has a tightly wound nose at first, black plum mixed with bilberry and light potpourri scents, just a touch of caramel in the background. Fine delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins. Moderate depth, smooth in texture, fine acidity, nice sapidity toward the licorice-tinged finish that feels open for business. You could drink this over the next 10 to 12 years.
The energy and focus in this second wine from Haut-Bailly is exciting, with aromas of iodine, oyster shells, blackberries and bark. Medium-bodied with fine, velvety tannins and a long, spicy and salty finish. Some white pepper. 50% cabernet franc, 30% cabernet sauvignon and 20% merlot. From organically grown grapes. Best after 2028.
About the producer
Quality at this château, now one of Pessac-Léognan’s leading wine estates, has risen exponentially under the reign of Véronique Sanders, with the property known for crafting wines of elegance and poise.