Deep garnet in color, the 2010 Haut Bages Liberal is a bit subdued to begin, unfurling to offer glimpses at mature stewed plums and warm figs scents with touches of mossy tree bark, unsmoked cigars and truffles. Medium-bodied, the palate delivers lovely freshness and well-managed, approachable tannins, finishing on a mineral note.
The 2011 Meursault 1er Cru Charmes is a little closed on the nose at first and demands coaxing, gently opening with attractive stony scents. The palate is well-balanced with a fine thread of acidity. Nicely balanced with almost symmetrical precision on the finish, this just needs to develop a little more personality. Fine.
An absolutely sensational second wine from Haut-Brion, the 2005 Bahans Haut-Brion displays all the smoke, gravel and chocolate notes along with ripe black fruits. Broad, savory, rich and lush, this is a sensational wine (now called Le Clarence) with gorgeous texture and length.
Its bigger sister, the 2011 d’Issan exhibits an attractive perfume of black cherries, earth and background loamy soil and oak notes. Although elegant, medium-bodied and well-made.
Offering broad, expansive, supple and silky tannin as well as loads of Asian plum sauce, blackcurrants, and sweet cherries, this wine is seductive, medium to full-bodied, and luscious.
This blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc offers aromas of high quality unsmoked cigar tobacco, lead pencil shavings, creme de cassis, earth, cedar and asphalt. Full, rich and stunningly concentrated,.