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 2017 Haut Bailly is an exquisite Bordeaux Blend that embodies the elegance and complexity of the Pessac Leognan region in Bordeaux, France. With its deep garnet-purple color, this red wine is visually captivating and sets the stage for the sensory journey that awaits.

On the nose, the 2017 Haut Bailly transports you to an imaginary Café De La Paix in 1900, with the scent of tar, tobacco, and the essence of cassis and blackberry aperitifs. Hints of flowers add to the complexity, creating a symphony of aromatics that entice the senses.

As you take your first sip, you will be captivated by the polish, softness, and energy of this wine. It has a lot of lift, offering a bright, yet not flashy, expression. The palate is beautifully balanced, showcasing the classic style of the estate. The wine was meticulously crafted from a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot, and 4% Cabernet Franc, resulting in a harmonious composition.

The 2017 Haut Bailly is a wine that can be enjoyed early, showcasing its beauty from the moment it is released. However, it also possesses the ability to age gracefully, allowing for a remarkable evolution over time. The wine reached 13.2% alcohol with a pH of 3.74, reflecting the careful craftsmanship that went into its production.

Renowned wine critics have praised the 2017 Haut Bailly, further validating its exceptional quality. Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com awarded it an impressive score of 96, describing it as a wine that brings you back to the Third French Republic with its smoky bar ambiance. James Suckling awarded it 95 points, highlighting its rich flavors and structure. Jeb Dunnuck compared it favorably to the highly regarded 2000 vintage and awarded it 95 points, emphasizing its balance, elegance, and longevity. The wine also received high scores of 94 from Vinous, 96 from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 95 from Wine Enthusiast, 93 from Wine Spectator, and 95 from Decanter.

In conclusion, the 2017 Haut Bailly is a wine of exceptional quality and character. Its captivating aromas, balanced palate, and ability to age make it a true gem from the Pessac Leognan region. Whether enjoyed now or carefully cellared for the future, this wine is sure to impress even the most discerning wine connoisseurs.