The 2019 Chateau Haut-Bailly II is a Bordeaux Blend composed of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, produced in the Pessac Leognan sub-region of Bordeaux, France. This red wine, sealed with a cork closure, carries an alcohol content of 14.0%.
Professional reviewers have provided high praise for this vintage. Neal Martin from Vinous awarded it a score of 93, noting its "accentuated sous-bois elements" and describing it as "quintessentially Pessac-Léognan" with a "marine-influenced" style. He highlighted its medium body, fine tannins, and fresh palate, concluding it as "very impressive."
Roger Voss from Wine Enthusiast gave the wine an excellent score of 94, emphasizing its "ripe tannins and dense black fruits." He described the wine as having "concentration, spice and a structure" with "fine potential," suggesting it would be best enjoyed starting from 2025.
Jeb Dunnuck also rated the wine highly, scoring it 92. He praised its "classic Graves scorched earth character" and blend of "pure red and black fruits, tobacco, and cedary herb-like aromas and flavors." He described the palate as "round, plush, and sexy," predicting it will "drink nicely for 10-15 years."
Decanter's review, also scoring it 94, highlighted the wine's aromatic profile with "dark berries and violets on the nose," calling it "sensuous." They noted its "beautifully fresh" palate with a "real zing and burst of red fruit juiciness" and praised its "smooth tannins" and "elegant" structure, describing the wine as "gentle and well presented."
Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com gave it a score of 92, noting its "elegant, refined, soft, and silky" texture. He commended the "beautiful sense of purity to the dark, red fruits" and mentioned its "forward style," suggesting it would be "delicious right out of the gate."
Lastly, The Wine Independent also rated the wine at 94, noting its "deep garnet-purple" color and describing the nose as having "stewed black plums, blackberry pie, and underbrush" with hints of "licorice, tar, and bay leaves." They praised its "ripe, soft tannins" and "seamless freshness," concluding with a "long and lifted" finish.
In summary, the 2019 Chateau Haut-Bailly II has garnered excellent reviews for its refined structure, aromatic complexity, and promising aging potential, making it a standout Bordeaux blend from the esteemed Haut-Bailly II producer.