2022 Haut-Bailly II (Pessac-Leognan)

A blend of 65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, the 2022 Haut-Bailly II reveals aromas of licorice, dark berries, plum, spices and cherries, followed by a medium to full-bodied palate that`s round, succulent and concentrated, concluding with a penetratingly saline finish. It’s a fleshy yet long Haut-Bailly II, matured in only 30% new oak. The erstwhile Chateau Le Pape is now partly integrated in this cuvee. 90-92 points

Silky, smooth, some raspberry leaf freshness, this is creamy, but not overly done, has intensity and depth, edges of white pepper spice and pulses of bright slate minerality. No more Chateau le Pape as of this vintage (after 10 years of working the 6ha vineyard to bring it up to the quality they are looking for), as from now on it has been integrated into Haut-Bailly II. 30hl/h yields, 2nd vintage in the new cellar. Gentle, low intervention winemaking. 92 points

The 2022 Haut-Bailly II is bright, fresh and vibrant, almost surprisingly so for such a torrid vintage. Medium in body and gracious, the 2022 is all class. Like so many wines in this vintage, Haut-Bailly II offers a compelling mix of ripe, radiant fruit supported by a super-classic structural feel. Pretty floral notes brighten up the finish. This is beautifully done. 91-93 points

The 2022 Haut-Bailly II is a selection of fruit from younger vines (there is also a Troisieme Vin). Dark berry fruit, brown spice and tobacco aromas unfold nicely in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, fine acidity and moderate depth. There is a cracked black pepper dash toward a finish that is reserved at the moment and will open once in bottle. It has real personality and should aged over 15 or more years. 90-92 points