Château Haut-Brion - Pessac-Léognan - Red - 2021

Wine:

Thanks to its early-ripening terroir, the 2021 Pessac-Léognan Château Haut-Brion Red stands out as one of the defining wines of the vintage. Even now, it sets itself apart: initially reserved, it gradually unveils a subtle depth, framed by fresh, precise tannins that bring both elegance and complexity. Layers of dark fruit, delicate spices, and a hint of truffle weave together into a beautifully nuanced aromatic profile. The palate has remarkable structure and bright energy, flowing with effortless precision. It’s a wine that feels both slender and full—tightly knit, perfectly balanced, and built to evolve gracefully over time.

Vinification:

Hand harvested, fermented in stainless steel vats, aged for 20 months in new barrels.

Color:

Dark purple, shiny.

Nose:

Complex with aromas of black fruits, delicate spices and hints of truffle.

Palate:

A superbly full and fresh palate, underscored by delicate, elegant tannins. A long, full, and tightly-knit wine with good aging potential.

Temperature:

Serve between 14 and 16°C.

Food and wine pairing:

Confit lamb rack, pepper-crusted duck breast, beef with morel mushrooms.

Cellar aging:

From now until 2045 and beyond for enthusiasts

A First Growth Grand Cru Classé, Château Haut-Brion sits right at the top of Bordeaux’s pecking order. This legendary estate—remarkably set within the city itself—has built its reputation on a sumptuous texture and that unmistakable smoky character, thanks to grapes that ripen early in this unique urban microclimate.

In fact, its terroir is the earliest to ripen in the entire appellation, and the generous proportion of Merlot (often 40% or more) forms the backbone of a wine that’s broad, rich, and irresistibly charming.

Awarded 4 stars by the Revue du Vin de France—the highest distinction—Haut-Brion shows off a level of refinement that’s simply off the charts, along with aging potential that borders on legendary.