2010 Clarence de Haut-Brion (Pessac-Leognan)

Robert Parker:

Le Clarence de Haut-Brion. Probably the greatest second wine made at this estate since the 1989 Bahans-Haut-Brion, this blend of 52% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot reveals elegant minerality along with lots of sweet black cherry and raspberry fruit intermixed with hints of damp earth and forest floor. Medium to full-bodied and lush, it should drink beautifully for 10-15 years. 90-93 points.

Neal Martin:

This has a very different nose to the La Chapelle, the Cabernet very potent here, crushed stones with a hint of graphite. This has more backbone that the La Chapelle, very fine tannins with good acidity, dense blackberry, cassis and a touch of black plum, strict and linear towards the finish which is more masculine than the La Chapelle. Do not overlook this second label. Tasted March 2011. 92-94 points.

Jean-Marc Quarin:

One of the deepest hues for the estate. Refined fruity nose of average intensity, with pleasant touches of ink. Caressing on the palate, with plenty of taste and a compelling structure. Tannins a little marked on finish. Real presence in the glass. Good length. 88-89 points

Ian D`Agata:

Deep ruby. Pungent aromas of black cherry, licorice and mint. Juicy and tightly wound, showing a very austere personality today, with a medicinal black cherry flavor complicated by camphor, tobacco leaf and minerals. Finishes long but with mounting, tough tannins that will require years of patience. I wonder if the merlot is to blame for the wine`s rough tannins; interestingly, Haut-Brion itself includes a very low percentage of this variety in its blend this year and is much smoother. 87-90 points