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 exquisite 2022 Haut Brion, a Bordeaux Blend hailing from the esteemed Pessac Leognan sub-region in Bordeaux, France. This red wine is a true testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the renowned Haut Brion estate. With a vibrant red color that catches the eye, this wine embodies elegance, sophistication, and pure indulgence.

As you take a moment to appreciate the wine's label, you are transported into a world of refined aromas and flavors. Jeff Leve, from TheWineCellarInsider.com, describes the bouquet as a delightful fusion of fresh berries and a lit Cuban cigar, a combination that is both intriguing and enticing. The aromatic profile is further enhanced by a floral lift, adding an extra layer of sophistication.

On the palate, the 2022 Haut Brion reveals its true character. It is fresh, bright, and vibrant, with a silky softness that envelops the senses. The fruits are the star of the show, with no barriers between you and their luscious flavors. The wine is elevated, refined, and exudes a sense of purity that is simply unmatched. The finish is refreshing and long-lasting, lingering seamlessly for 60 seconds or more.

Crafted from a blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc, this wine showcases the winemaker's expertise in balancing the different grape varietals. The harvesting process took place from August 29 to September 15, ensuring optimal ripeness and flavor development. The yields were limited to 35 hectoliters per hectare, with 50% of the harvest going into the prestigious Grand Vin.

The critics are unanimous in their praise for the 2022 Haut Brion. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awards it an impressive score of 97 points, noting its dark berry and plum aromas, as well as its rich and muscular structure. James Suckling is equally enamored, awarding it 99 points and praising its crunchy and electric palate of primary fruit.

Jeb Dunnuck highlights the wine's full-bodied and concentrated style, predicting that it will benefit from several years of cellaring. Jane Anson is captivated by the wine's stately and inky color, as well as its fresh fig character and creamy bilberry and blackberry fruits. Vinous describes the 2022 Haut Brion as deep and wonderfully layered, with remarkable depth and a Haut-Brion signature of violet, gravel, incense, leather, tobacco, and scorched earth.

Decanter rounds out the praise by commending the wine's sleek, supple, and suave nature, noting its excellent construction, clean depth and power, and waves of flavor intensity.

In conclusion, the 2022 Haut Brion is a wine that effortlessly combines power and elegance, offering a sensory experience that is second to none. With its impeccable balance, refined structure, and remarkable purity, this wine is destined to become a legend in the world of Haut Brion. Whether you choose to savor it now or cellar it for future enjoyment, the 2022 Haut Brion is a must-have for any wine enthusiast.