The 2015 Haut Bages Liberal is a Bordeaux Blend from the renowned region of Pauillac in Bordeaux, France. Produced by Haut Bages Liberal, this red wine comes with a cork closure and has an alcohol content of 13.5%. The 2015 vintage has received notable attention from wine critics, earning high praise for its composition and potential.
James Suckling awarded this wine a score of 94, noting its "plenty of spicy, savory oak influence" paired with a "vibrant array of cassis, blackberries and plums." Suckling describes the palate as having "rich and powerful tannins that roll sturdy and long," carrying deep cherry and plum flavors. He also suggests that the wine has more to offer with time and recommends trying it from 2022. (jamessuckling.com, 2/2/2018)
Wine Enthusiast also rated this wine 94, highlighting its generous yet firmly structured profile. The review emphasizes a "dense, dry core surrounded by blackberry and black-currant fruit," indicating the wine's promise for future development. The finish is described as "clean, clear and crisp," with a recommended drinking window starting from 2024. This estate is one of three biodynamic properties owned by Gonzague and Claire Lurton, which may contribute to its unique characteristics. (Wine Enthusiast, 2/1/2018)
Decanter rated the wine a bit lower at 91 but still recognized its quality. The review mentions "soft, smooth, deep fruit on the nose," with oak being "used to good effect." The wine is described as having a "flush of intensity to the black fruits," appealing to those who enjoy flavors of cassis, cedar, and liquorice. Decanter notes that the wine will need time to soften but acknowledges it as a strong performance from Haut Bages Liberal, currently undergoing biodynamic conversion with 40% new oak used in its production. (Decanter, 11/2/2017)
In summary, the 2015 Haut Bages Liberal is a well-regarded Bordeaux Blend with a firm structure and rich, deep fruit flavors. It has received excellent reviews, particularly from James Suckling and Wine Enthusiast, and shows promise for further development with aging.