The 2012 Haut Bailly is a Bordeaux blend hailing from the esteemed Pessac-Léognan sub-region of Bordeaux, France. This red wine, produced by Haut Bailly, is sealed with a cork and contains 13.0% alcohol.
The wine has received high praise from various professional reviewers, with scores frequently in the mid-90s. Wine Enthusiast awarded it a 94, noting its current firmness and potential for development: "It has the weight to develop well along with richness. Acidity, sweet fruits and concentrated tannins will all come through strongly as the wine matures. Drink from 2020." (Wine Enthusiast, 5/1/2015).
James Suckling also rated it 94, highlighting the wine's aromatic intensity and refined tannins: "This red shows intense blackberries, raspberries and strawberries on the nose, following through to a full body with refined yet firm tannins, fresh acidity and a delicate finish. The purity of fruit and finesse and texture of the tannins are all fantastic. Drink in 2019." (James Suckling, 2/11/2015).
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate mirrored this score, commending its structure and balance: "It has a very intense bouquet with scents of blackberry, bilberry, cedar and a touch of pencil lead... certainly one of the most structured Pessac-Léognan wines that I have encountered." (Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 7/29/2017).
Jeb Dunnuck compared the 2012 vintage favorably to other notable years, saying, "In the same ballpark quality-wise as the 2006, 2008, and 2014... It’s still youthful but drinking brilliantly. Enjoy bottles any time over the coming 15+ years." (Jeb Dunnuck, 10/19/2023).
Vinous offered a slightly lower score of 91, noting: "The palate is ripe and fleshy on the entry, powerful and quite dense, although it lacks the complexity of the de Fieuzal towards the finish." (Vinous, 9/27/2022).
Decanter gave it a 94, praising the wine's concentration and depth: "It’s full-bodied and suave, with a chocolate tone as well as an intense black-fruits character. It’s very concentrated and dense, with depth and weight, but no rusticity or excessive extraction." (Decanter, 10/9/2019).
Overall, the 2012 Haut Bailly is characterized by rich, dark fruit flavors, firm tannins, and a well-structured body. Its ability to age well is frequently noted, with most reviewers suggesting it will continue to develop over the next decade or more. The wine's complexity and balance make it a standout choice for those looking to invest in a high-quality Bordeaux blend.