Chateau Haut-Bailly, an esteemed Cru Classé de Graves, lies in a 30 hectare (74 acres) vineyard near the center of the region. On the left bank of the river Garonne, it is positioned on a high sandy ridge mixed with gravel, atop a layer of sandstone and fossil shell remains. This terroir gives Haut Bailly wines distinctive character and refinement.

The property featured vines in 1461 or earlier, and from 1530s one could see a focused wine estate taking shape. That estate changed hands over the centuries and was handed down from generation to generation, each leaving their stamp. Today, Chateau Haut Bailly is owned by Robert G. Wilmers, an American businessman devoted to Bordeaux Grands Crus. His stewardship and investment has brought Haut Bailly to new heights but all in keeping with the estates strong heritage.

The long heritage of Chateau Haut Bailly is represented by 4 hectares of own-rooted, century-old vines. The remainder of the vineyard, on carefully selected rootstock, is Cabernet Sauvignon focused with 34% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot available to create complex, well-rounded wines.

Chateau Haut-Bailly, says Robert Parker Jr., “is a wine of undeniable finesse, elegance and restraint.” Marked by sophistication and supple tannins, historically—like most top-quality Bordeaux—it has been at its finest after some years of bottle age.

However, in recent years, the wines are increasingly attractive in their youth. This does not seem to affect the age-worthiness of the wine. It merely broadens the timespan for enjoyment. Indeed, steady improvements in winemaking and viticulture are raising overall quality to new levels.

The 2009 Haut Bailly is a Bordeaux Blend red wine from the Pessac Leognan sub-region of Bordeaux, France. This wine is a true gem from the esteemed Haut Bailly estate, showcasing the exceptional quality of the 2009 vintage.

In the glass, the wine exhibits a deep and vibrant red color, enticing and alluring. The nose is a symphony of aromas, beginning with enticing scents of blueberries and cassis, followed by notes of black cherries, blood orange, and iris flowers. There is a skillful translation of the warm and ripe growing season, although there is a slight touch of alcohol that softens the edges compared to more recent vintages.

On the palate, this wine truly shines. It is medium-bodied, with a sensual and creamy texture that caresses the senses. The palate is filled with luscious black fruit flavors, accompanied by a hint of liquorice. It is more primal compared to a bottle opened in a previous vintage, showcasing its potential for further aging.

The critics agree on the exceptional quality of this wine. Neal Martin from Vinous rates it 94 points, praising its glorious example from Haut Bailly. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awards it an impressive 97 points, describing it as bold and earthy, with a muscular and defined palate. James Suckling rates it 97 points, noting its solid core of fruit and velvety texture.

Cory Gowan from JJ Buckley gives it 96 points, calling it a blockbuster wine with true power and elegance. Wine Spectator rates it 94 points, highlighting its rich and dense feel, balanced by a strong graphite frame. Wine Enthusiast awards it 95 points, praising its smooth and opulent nature.

This wine has a fantastic aging potential and is best enjoyed from 2017 onwards, although it will continue to mature gracefully for many years to come. It is a wine that epitomizes elegance and finesse in Bordeaux, and is a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts alike.