Chateau Haut Bailly, Pessac Leognan Grand Cru Classe

Description

Chateau Haut Bailly consists of a 30 hectare vineyard in the heart of the Graves region on Bordeaux’s famous left bank. The estate has truly come into its own over the past 5-7 years, showcasing remarkable excellence.

Originally acquired by the Sanders family in 1955 and under the skilled leadership of Jean Sanders until 1998, the estate experienced a significant shift when it was purchased by Robert G. Wilmers, an esteemed American banker. Situated in the commune of Léognan, a region predominantly renowned for its white wine production, Haut-Bailly stands as a captivating exception, crafting exceptional red wines that have garnered well-deserved recognition in recent years. Chateau Haut Bailly has a distinctive style that harmoniously combines classicism with modernity, elegance, finesse and softness with structure. The silky smoothness of the tannins echoes the elegant yet complex aromas.

The vineyards are located on a high ridge of land with excellent drainage, the soil is mainly sandy, mixed with gravel sitting over a sandstone layer and fossilised shells. The vineyards are planted with a mixture of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. There is also a 4 hectare plot which is over 100 years old planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Carmenère, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec.

Chateau Haut Bailly 2008 is an assemblage of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot.

From the Chateau, “The 2008 harvest will remain in the history books as one of the longest and latest of the decade: 10 days of grape picking spread out over 5 weeks! The harvest began on September 25 for the youngest merlots, while the last cabernet sauvignons were brought in from 0ctober 17 to 23, in perfect health. Low yields and a late year are a strong indication of excellent quality. The 2008 vintage is rich in colour, has great vivacity, structure and balance, with velvety tannins that are seductive and powerful: both striking and soft!”