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.

The 2005 Haut Brion is a true masterpiece from the Bordeaux region of France. With its deep, dark black-purple color, this wine immediately catches the eye and beckons you to explore its depths. The nose is initially dominated by cool blueberry aromas, but as it opens up, it reveals layers of light oak, chocolate, and cherry. There are also hints of smokey leather, tobacco, and tar, which add complexity to the overall profile.

On the palate, the 2005 Haut Brion is a force to be reckoned with. The heavy tannins grip your teeth and provide a firm structure, while flavors of dark blackberry and cassis dance on the tongue. However, these flavors are somewhat muted by the presence of heavy new oak and green tannic overtones. This wine is powerful and intense, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.

The 2005 vintage of Haut Brion has received exceptional praise from wine critics and experts. Neal Martin's Wine Journal rates it a staggering 98+, describing it as audacious, sensual, and harmonious. Wine & Spirits also awards it a near-perfect score of 98, praising its mineral-laced profile and brilliant energy. James Suckling gives it a perfect 100, noting its complex and subtle fruit characteristics.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also bestows a perfect score of 100 upon this wine, calling it exquisite and a tour de force in winemaking. Wine Spectator concurs, describing it as incredible on the nose and beautifully balanced on the palate. The 2005 Haut Brion is a wine that will continue to evolve and improve over the next several decades, making it an excellent investment for collectors.

In conclusion, the 2005 Haut Brion is a wine that truly lives up to its reputation as a First Growth Bordeaux. It is a wine of exceptional quality, complexity, and elegance. With its powerful tannins, intense fruit flavors, and long-lasting finish, it is a wine that demands attention and respect. Whether enjoyed now or aged for further development, the 2005 Haut Brion is a wine that will not disappoint.