The oldest of Bordeaux’s five first growths and the only property outside the Medoc to be included in the 1855 Classification, Chateau Haut-Brion was founded by Jean de Pontac in 1533. The name derives from the Celtic word briga, meaning “hill” or “high place”, and refers to the gravelly elevated terrain situated between the Le Peuge and Le Serpent streams.

History shows that as early as 1660, Haut-Brion wines were already appreciated at royal tables as evidenced by the purchase of 169 bottles by King Charles II of England, noted in the royal cellar book. Among the wine’s admirers are the famous London diarist Samuel Pepys, and Thomas Jefferson, who had distinguished the wine’s quality long before the 1855 Classification.

Arnaud III de Pontac was responsible for building the estate’s international reputation and for creating a new style of wine that is the basis for all currently classified growths - an era which historians have described as a revolution in winemaking.

Chateau Haut-Brion was acquired by the American financier Clarence Dillon on May 13, 1935 and has been managed by the same family since. Much of the estate’s success is also credited to the Delmas family, who have worked the estate for three generations. Nearly five centuries after the creation of its vineyard and 350 years after the first published mention under its current name, Chateau Haut-Brion remains one of the finest wines in the world today.

Haut-Brion’s grand vin is the embodiment of five centuries of tradition and plays a pivotal role in the worldwide history of wine. It is the oldest of the Bordeaux classed growths, the inventor of a new style of wine fashioned in the seventeenth century, and considered the world’s first luxury brand.

Typically more Merlot dominant than other Left Bank wines, the terroir of Haut-Brion is expressed through its empyreumatic bouquet (Havana cigars, chocolate, roasting, cedar wood, and so on). The attack is restrained, with precise yet exceedingly soft tannins. But the power of this wine is revealed in the surprising long mid-palate and even longer finish.

Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce you to a wine that truly embodies the essence of Bordeaux: the 1990 Haut Brion. This remarkable Bordeaux Blend hails from the renowned Pessac Leognan sub-region in Bordeaux, France. With its exquisite red color and a cork closure, this wine exudes elegance and sophistication from the moment you lay eyes on it.

The 1990 Haut Brion has a fascinating history, and its reputation precedes it. Let us delve into the depths of its character and taste, as described by esteemed wine critics. According to Wine Spectator, this wine is racy and refined, boasting firm, silky tannins and a long, lingering finish. On the palate, one can detect notes of mushrooms and ripe fruit, harmoniously blended together. However, it is worth noting that this wine requires some bottle age to fully reveal its complex flavors, making it a perfect candidate for cellaring.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate describes the 1990 Haut Brion as a wine of unparalleled aromatic complexity. Scents of scorched earth, black currants, plums, charcoal, cedar, and spices create an aromatic explosion that leaves wine enthusiasts in awe. This vintage has put on weight since its bottling, resulting in a rich, full-bodied, and opulent expression of Haut Brion's noble terroir. It is an irresistible wine that showcases the potential of a top vintage.

Neal Martin's Wine Journal adds another layer to the tasting experience. Served blind, this wine impresses with its medium-bodied profile, fine acidity, and textured fleshiness. Although it may lack a little power, it remains a lovely wine that can still be enjoyed today or cellared until 2025.

Moving on to the Vinous review, this 1990 Haut Brion is described as exotic, flamboyant, and super-expressive. Dark fruit, leather, licorice, and grilled herbs take center stage, creating a stunning and gorgeous wine of the highest level. While it may not possess the same aromatic depth and intensity as the very finest years, it remains a wine that captivates and astonishes.

John Gilman, from View From The Cellar, considers this 1990 Haut Brion to be one of the top wines from that year. With its youthful nose of cassis, dark berries, tobacco leaf, leather, fresh herb tones, and gravelly soil, this wine is a testament to the magical terroir of Haut Brion. On the palate, it showcases a fine core of fruit, outstanding balance, ripe tannins, and an intensely flavored finish. It is a great wine in the making, promising many years of enjoyment for those patient enough to wait.

Decanter magazine compares the 1990 Haut Brion to its neighboring appellation, Margaux. While it shares a similar level of success, it possesses a more exuberant feel. Hints of cinnamon, smoke, truffles, and meat dance on the palate, creating an opulent and rounded mouthfeel. This wine is ready to be enjoyed now, but it still has a softly brushed tannic frame and plenty of life ahead.

Last but certainly not least, Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com awards this wine an astonishing score of 99. He describes it as rich, full, deep, and intense. Concentrated flavors, balanced structure, elegance, and refinement are all seamlessly integrated, resulting in a harmonious wine. While it may be slightly less concentrated than the majestic 1989 vintage, it offers a similar level of quality at a fraction of the price.

In conclusion, the 1990 Haut Brion is a wine that showcases the pinnacle of Bordeaux winemaking. With its complex aromas, refined tannins, and remarkable aging potential, it is a true masterpiece. Whether you choose to savor it now or cellar it for years to come, this wine promises to take you on an unforgettable journey through the vineyards of Pessac Leognan. Cheers to the timeless beauty of the 1990 Haut Brion!