2017 Haut-Brion La Clarte de Haut-Brion
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Tasting notes
Diam closure. Tasted blind. Pale lemon colour. Waxy, broad and ripe on the nose. There is a flinty hit of reduction and spiciness too. Complex. Leesy richness on the palate, there is depth and ripeness, and a real tang of acidity. Broad acids cut through beeswax and poached fruit. Warm. Powerful and smoky to the finish. (TP)
Critic scores
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Tom Parker MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
The 2017 La Clarté de Haut-Brion is a very pretty second wine to drink over the next handful of years. Citrus, orchard fruit and white flower notes all grace this weightless, crystalline second wine. A touch of reduction adds nuance without being excessive or overpowering. The 2017 is classy, polished and absolutely delicious.
Composed of 30.6% Sauvignon Blanc and 69.4% Sémillon, the 2017 La Clarté de Haut-Brion comes roaring out of the glass with bold notes of fresh apricots, pineapple and lime cordial plus hints of chalk dust, straw and coriander seed with a touch of honeysuckle. Medium-bodied, the palate has electric intensity with bags of stone and tropical fruit layers and a wicked backbone of freshness, finishing long and zesty.
The 2017 La Clarté de Haut-Brion has fresh lime, green apple and honeysuckle aromas. The palate is nicely balanced with a rounded entry, not amazing complexity. A touch of acacia honey towards the end just dips before the finish line.
About the producer
Ch. Haut-Brion is the only classified growth in Pessac-Léognan. One of the five First Growths, it is renowned for producing both exceptional reds and whites. Along with its sister estate, Ch. la Mission Haut-Brion, it is part of the Clarence Dillon stable.