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 2011 Haut Bailly is a Bordeaux Blend that hails from the prestigious Bordeaux region of France. This red wine is a true gem, showcasing the elegance and complexity that the Haut Bailly estate is renowned for.

In the glass, the 2011 Haut Bailly exhibits a medium bright red color that catches the eye. This wine is a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 6% Cabernet Franc, aged for 16 months in 50-65% new barrels. The unique gravelly sand soils of the estate, sitting on fossil-rich subsoil, contribute to the wine's exceptional character.

On the nose, the 2011 Haut Bailly is soft, pure, and incredibly fragrant. It exudes enticing aromas of tar and blackberry liqueur, which are hallmarks of this esteemed estate. Upon entry, the wine is ripe and pure on the palate, with intense blue fruit flavors that captivate the senses. The wine's firm tannins provide structure and promise for aging potential.

While the 2011 vintage will require some time to fully integrate, it boasts one of the longest unhurried finishes of any 2011 Pessac. This is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into every bottle of Chateau Haut Bailly.

Owned by American Robert Wilmers since 1998, Chateau Haut Bailly has experienced a tremendous resurgence in quality under his stewardship. The wine has garnered high praise from critics, including a score of 95 points from Cory Gowan of JJ Buckley, who hailed it as a well-done wine.

Other critics have also lauded the 2011 Haut Bailly, with Wine Enthusiast awarding it 94 points and describing it as a big, powerful wine with dense tannins and firm fruit. Neal Martin's Wine Journal gave it 93 points, commending its impressive delineation, focus, and silky smooth texture. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate bestowed a score of 94 points, praising the wine's profound elegance, purity, and potential for aging.

James Suckling also rated the 2011 Haut Bailly highly, awarding it 95 points and describing it as wonderfully aromatic with notes of currants, blackberries, and lilacs. Wine Spectator awarded it 92 points, noting its grippy feel, briar, and plum sauce notes. Decanter also gave it 94 points, praising its careful control, elegance, and juicy nature.

Overall, the 2011 Haut Bailly is a wine that exemplifies the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of this renowned estate. It is a wine that demands attention and promises a truly remarkable drinking experience. Enjoy it from 2016 to 2026 and savor every sip.