2012 Haut-Bailly (Pessac-Leognan)

While the 2012 Haut-Bailly is not as powerful or rich as the 2009 and 2010, it is classically elegant, racy and noble. This medium-bodied effort is the poster child for elegance, finesse, balance and equilibrium. The Cantemerle of Pessac-Leognan? Its deep ruby/plum/purple color is followed by a sweet nose of black cherries, black currants, lead pencil shavings and a touch of spicy oak. This medium-bodied, pretty wine will benefit from 4-5 years of cellaring and last for two decades. 91-93

The Grand Vin is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, picked between September 27th and October 15th. The nose is comparatively reserved, broody black fruit, wild strawberry and hint of cedar. It is nicely focused, less precocious than recent vintages. The palate is soft and very smooth on the entry. Velvety soft tannins, although it needs just a little more lift on the mid-palate. It is quite linear towards the finish, quite caressing in the mouth with just a little new oak to be absorbed. There is nice grip and persistency here – a classic Haut-Bailly. 91-93 points

Purple colour with good intensity. Fruity, fragrant nose. Smooth on the attack, soft and smooth as it develops with a lovely fruity sparkle and a taste of ink and Cabernet. This dense wine evolves towards tight tannins and good flavoursome, aromatic length. 91 points

As it often does, Haut-Bailly has made one of the leading wines in Pessac-Léognan in 2012, and one that wouldn’t look out of place alongside its 2010. It’s a serious red, built for cellaring, with plenty of concentration, aromatic, floral fruit, tangy acidity and layered, age-worthy tannins. Drink. 2022-35. 94 points