2004 Haut Brion, Pessac-Leognan

Representative blend: 45% Merlot, 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot. The second wine is Clarence de Haut Brion (previously Bahans Haut Brion).

Haut Brion is sited across the road from its sister property, La Mission Haut Brion. Both are within the southern suburbs of the city of Bordeaux, and surrounded by development on all sides. It is in part this very specific (and quite warm) microclimate which gives Haut Brion its unique taste - Havana tobacco, earth and spice. It can also be the most velvety and seductive of all the first growths, and to some extent remains underappreciated for its myriad subtleties and beauties.

Haut Brion has been owned by the American Clarence Dillon family since the 1930s.

Tasting Note

Serena Sutcliffe, MW: A nose of real finesse and breed. Total attack of Havana cigars and fresh healthy fruit. A long finish in the context of the year. 12/08