The 2009 Haut-Bailly is a Bordeaux blend from the esteemed Pessac-Léognan region in Bordeaux, France, showcasing a masterful composition of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 6% Cabernet Franc. This vintage has been lauded for its balance of opulence and finesse, earning it high praise from several prominent wine critics.
Jeb Dunnuck awards it a perfect score of 100, describing it as possessing a "rare mix of opulence and elegance" with "velvety tannins and a magical finish." This sentiment is echoed by Jeff Leve, who rates it 99, applauding its elegance, freshness, and depth, noting that it "hits all the right notes" and is poised for future greatness.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gives the wine a 97, highlighting its "muscular fruit" and "long and earthy" finish, while James Suckling also scores it 97, appreciating its "solid core of fruit" and "wonderfully structured" profile.
Decanter and Jane Anson, both scoring it 98, note its youthful vibrancy and potential for aging, with Decanter describing it as "creamy" yet "taut" and Anson praising its "supple tannins" and "fleshy blackberry and cassis fruits."
The wine is characterized by its rich aromas of black fruit, chocolate, and floral notes, with reviewers frequently mentioning its velvety texture and the presence of earthy and smoky undertones. Neal Martin from Vinous emphasizes its "creamy, velvety texture" and "glorious" expression, while Wine Spectator points out its "muscular but defined" finish.
Overall, the 2009 Haut-Bailly is a wine of considerable depth and complexity, with a strong potential for aging, recommended to be enjoyed from 2025 onwards, although it is already considered exceptional by connoisseurs today.