The 2021 Haut Brion is a Bordeaux Blend that hails from the prestigious Pessac Leognan sub-region of Bordeaux, France. This red wine showcases the timeless elegance and multidimensional complexity that is characteristic of the Haut Brion estate.
In the glass, the wine reveals a deep, garnet color that hints at its concentration and depth. The aromas that waft from the glass are rich and inviting, with notes of ripe red and black fruit mingling with nuances of cigar wrapper, licorice, black truffles, loamy soil, and burning embers. These complex aromatics create a captivating olfactory experience that only increases the anticipation of tasting the wine.
On the palate, the 2021 Haut Brion does not disappoint. It is full-bodied, deep, and concentrated, with superb depth at the core. Lively acids and ultra-refined tannins add structure and balance to the wine, while also contributing to its overall elegance. The combination of classical proportions from two decades ago with modern viticultural and winemaking practices results in a wine that is both a timeless classic and a superior expression of the 2021 vintage.
The blend for this vintage consists of 50% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 12% Cabernet Franc, which contribute to the wine's complexity and depth of flavor. The alcohol percentage is slightly lower than in previous vintages, at 13.8%, further emphasizing the wine's elegance and balance.
Renowned wine critic Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awards this wine an impressive score of 98 points, calling it a "candidate for the title of wine of the vintage." Other critics, such as Jane Anson, Jeff Leve, Jeb Dunnuck, James Suckling, Vinous, Decanter, and Wine Enthusiast, also praise the wine for its balance, concentration, structure, and complexity. It is a wine that will undoubtedly reward those who have the patience to cellar it, with a suggested drinking window from 2027 to 2060.
Overall, the 2021 Haut Brion is a wine that exemplifies the mastery and artistry of winemaking at this esteemed estate. It is a wine that demands attention and respect, and it is sure to be a highlight of any cellar or special occasion.