92 points,

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, April 1999

The backward 1996 Haut-Brion was bottled in July, 1998. Even administrator Jean Delmas was surprised by how closed it was when I tasted it in January. Only 60% of the crop was utilized in the final blend, which was 50% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 11% Cabernet Franc. Out of barrel, this wine exhibited far more forthcoming aromatics as well as a sweeter mid-palate than it revealed from bottle. I had expected it to be more forward, and thus slightly down-graded the wine, although I am thrilled to own it and follow what appears to be a slow evolution. It will be a potentially long-lived wine. The 1996 exhibits a deep ruby/purple color, and a surprisingly tight bouquet. With aeration, notes of fresh tobacco, dried herbs, smoke, asphalt, and black fruits emerge ... but reluctantly. It is tannic and medium-bodied, with outstanding purity and a layered, multidimensional style. However, the finish contains abundant tannin, suggesting that this wine needs 5-8 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2030.

92 points,

Stephen Tanzer's IWC, June 1999

Full ruby-red. Initially mute nose opened slowly to reveal complex aromas of raspberry, plum, hot stones, tobacco, saddle leather and toffee. Really explodes on the palate; lush and minerally, with a compelling note of woodsmoke and firm acidity. Wonderful combination of sweetness and vibrancy. Finishes very long and subtle, with firm tannins. 92 points

93 points,

Wine Spectator, April 2007

Gorgeous aromas of crushed berries, cigar box, black licorice and tanned leather. Full-bodied, with fine silky tannins and a medium to long finish. Seems a little tight right now. But refined and pretty. Nice for the vintage.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Best after 2008. -JS

About Winery

Chateau Haut-Brion boasts a much more historic tradition as it is believed that grapes have been grown on the property since Roman times. However, the first true written record of Haut-Brion dates back to 1525 when Jean de Pontac married Jeanne de Bellon who brought him the dowry of the land that composes Haut-Brion. Chateau Haut-Brion also appeared in writing as a First Growth in the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855.

Haut-Brion has a truly illustrious past.  It is the first recorded First Growth to be imported into the United States when Thomas Jefferson purchased six cases and took them back to Monticello. Haut-Brion was also the first of the great growths to use stainless steel fermentation vats. The greatness of Haut-Brion wines was also recorded by Samuel Pepys, John Locke, and Cardinal Richelieu.  Its 1970s vintage placed fourth in the Judgement of Paris wine competition.  Haut-Brion remains quite the celebrity of the winemaking world and its wines continue to be highly rated and coveted across the globe.

Shipping Details

This item is in stock and ready to ship.

Get it Tuesday! Order by 6pm EST (3pm PST) today and select OVERNIGHT shipping.

Get it Wednesday. Order by 6pm EST (3pm PST) today and select 2 Day shipping.

If you order by 6p EST today and request GROUND shipping your order will ship Monday May 20 and should arrive by Friday May 24.

Need it faster? Call us now at (888) 859-4637 for special arrangements.

Free storage available. We offer free 6 months storage for any wine purchased at JJ Buckley. We highly recommend storing your wines during the summer months to avoid heat damage during shipment.

For a shipping quote, add this product to your shopping cart. From there you will be able to enter a zipcode and get a detailed quote. For full details on our shipping policies, click here.