Chateau Haut Brion 2010

Located in Pessac-Léognan, just southwest of Bordeaux, Château Haut-Brion occupies a singular place in wine history. The estate is the only property outside the Médoc to have been named a First Growth in the historic 1855 Classification, and written references to wine produced from the Haut-Brion terroir date back to 1521. The Dillon family has owned the estate since 1935.

The 2010 vintage was shaped by an exceptionally dry growing season and arid summer, with the period from April through September the driest experienced at the estate since 1949. Water stress concentrated the berries, while unusually cool nights preserved freshness and encouraged deep colour development. The resulting Grand Vin is a blend of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, matured with 75% new oak. Harvest took place from September 9 to October 9, 2010.

Tasting Notes
Colour: Deep ruby to garnet with dark purple tones, still showing remarkable depth and concentration.

Nose: Layered and gradually unfolding, with blackcurrant, red berries and plum joined by cocoa, roasted coffee, cigar tobacco, graphite, smoke and subtle earthy mineral notes.

Palate: Full-bodied, concentrated and commanding, yet remarkably refined. Dense dark fruit is framed by fine-grained, silky tannins, fresh acidity and savoury layers of earth, spice, tobacco and mineral character.

Finish: Exceptionally long and persistent, carrying cassis, cocoa, smoke, graphite and fine tannin through an elegant, slowly fading finish.

Ideal Drinking Window: 2030–2075+