The oldest of Bordeaux’s five first growths and the only property outside the Medoc to be included in the 1855 Classification, Chateau Haut-Brion was founded by Jean de Pontac in 1533. The name derives from the Celtic word briga, meaning “hill” or “high place”, and refers to the gravelly elevated terrain situated between the Le Peuge and Le Serpent streams.

History shows that as early as 1660, Haut-Brion wines were already appreciated at royal tables as evidenced by the purchase of 169 bottles by King Charles II of England, noted in the royal cellar book. Among the wine’s admirers are the famous London diarist Samuel Pepys, and Thomas Jefferson, who had distinguished the wine’s quality long before the 1855 Classification.

Arnaud III de Pontac was responsible for building the estate’s international reputation and for creating a new style of wine that is the basis for all currently classified growths - an era which historians have described as a revolution in winemaking.

Chateau Haut-Brion was acquired by the American financier Clarence Dillon on May 13, 1935 and has been managed by the same family since. Much of the estate’s success is also credited to the Delmas family, who have worked the estate for three generations. Nearly five centuries after the creation of its vineyard and 350 years after the first published mention under its current name, Chateau Haut-Brion remains one of the finest wines in the world today.

Haut-Brion’s grand vin is the embodiment of five centuries of tradition and plays a pivotal role in the worldwide history of wine. It is the oldest of the Bordeaux classed growths, the inventor of a new style of wine fashioned in the seventeenth century, and considered the world’s first luxury brand.

Typically more Merlot dominant than other Left Bank wines, the terroir of Haut-Brion is expressed through its empyreumatic bouquet (Havana cigars, chocolate, roasting, cedar wood, and so on). The attack is restrained, with precise yet exceedingly soft tannins. But the power of this wine is revealed in the surprising long mid-palate and even longer finish.

Introducing the 2019 Haut Brion, a remarkable Bordeaux Blend that showcases the excellence of the Pessac Leognan sub-region in Bordeaux, France. This red wine is a true gem, exuding elegance and finesse from the moment it hits the glass. With its deep, ruby color and enticing aromas, it is a wine that demands attention and captivates the senses.

As you bring the glass to your nose, you are greeted by the alluring scents of blackberries and plums, which harmoniously mingle with hints of pencil shavings, burning embers, and creamy new oak. The bouquet is complex and inviting, promising a sensory journey like no other.

On the palate, the 2019 Haut Brion reveals its full-bodied and fleshy nature. The texture is velvety and luxurious, enveloping your taste buds with an abundance of fruit flavors. The core of the wine is ample and generous, showcasing the richness and power that define this exceptional vintage. The finish is long and expansive, leaving a lasting impression that lingers on the palate.

Despite its 15% alcohol content, which is higher than previous great vintages, the 2019 Haut Brion maintains a remarkable balance and avoids any sense of over-ripeness. The integration of its rich, powdery tannins is seamless, adding to the wine's overall harmony and structure.

Renowned wine critics have been unanimous in their praise for this remarkable wine. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it a stellar score of 98 points, describing it as "broad-shouldered and muscular" with an "ample and enveloping core of fruit." James Suckling was even more effusive, awarding it a perfect score of 100 points and declaring it "one of the wines of the vintage." Decanter and Vinous also bestowed high scores of 98 and 99 points respectively, praising its intensity, complexity, and precision.

With its exceptional aging potential, the 2019 Haut Brion is a wine that will reward patience. While it can be enjoyed now for its glorious character and ethereal mouthfeel, it will truly shine after spending a decade or more in the cellar. This is a wine for the connoisseur, a wine that will continue to evolve and reveal its full potential over the next several decades.

In conclusion, the 2019 Haut Brion is a masterpiece from one of Bordeaux's most esteemed producers. Its beauty, complexity, and age-worthiness make it a must-have for any serious wine collector or enthusiast. Indulge in this exceptional Bordeaux Blend and experience the magic of the Pessac Leognan terroir in every sip.