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 2019 Haut Bailly is an exquisite representation of a Bordeaux Blend, hailing from the prestigious Pessac Leognan sub-region of Bordeaux, France. This wine manifests the quintessential elegance of French winemaking, displaying a captivatingly vibrant red color that adds to its overall allure.

As you approach this wine, your senses are instantly captivated by an extremely aromatic bouquet. The nose is complex and enchanting, offering a symphony of wet-earth, bark, stone, and graphite notes that gradually evolve into a floral bouquet of violets, blackberries, and blackcurrants. This aromatic complexity is the first signal of the intricate journey you are about to embark upon with every sip.

Upon tasting, the wine is full-bodied, yet remarkably linear and fine. It presents an exceptional structure with titanium tannins that contribute to its longevity. The palate is a harmonious blend of flavors that builds and rolls around the palate, culminating in an endless finish that leaves an indelible impression.

The 2019 Haut Bailly is a blend of 56% cabernet sauvignon, 36% merlot, 4% cabernet franc, and 4% petit verdot. This medley of varietals contributes to the wine's robust character and profound depth of flavor.

Ensuring its quality, the wine is sealed with a cork closure and contains an alcohol content of 14.0%. This wine is praised by several esteemed wine critics, including James Suckling who gave it an impressive score of 99. According to Suckling, the 2019 Haut Bailly is a "Real Bordeaux" that will be even better after 2029.

In conclusion, the 2019 Haut Bailly is a wine for the true connoisseur, promising an enigmatic experience that is both rich in complexity and profound in depth. This wine is not just a drink, but an exploration of the terroir of Bordeaux, a testament to the winemaking prowess of Haut Bailly. It's a wine that will continue to evolve and impress, making it an ideal addition to any cellar.