Overview
Bordeaux's oldest appellation and the only one classifying both reds and whites. Haut-Brion — the sole non-Médoc property in the 1855 Classification — produces wines of haunting tobacco and earth complexity.
In The Glass
- Colour
- Medium ruby
- Nose
- Blackcurrant, Red cherry, Plum, Tobacco and Earth.
- Palate
- Earthy, tobacco-driven — most terroir-expressive of Bordeaux. Generally full-bodied, medium acidity, firm tannins, dry, with a long finish.
Tasting Profile
Body Full4/5
Tannins Firm4/5
Acidity Medium3/5
Sweetness Bone Dry1/5
Alcohol Medium3/5
Grapes
Cabernet SauvignonMerlotSauvignon BlancSémillon
Aromas And Notes
BlackcurrantRed cherryPlumTobaccoEarthCedarGraphiteLeatherCigarDried herbs
Terroir
Maritime, with urban heat island effect around Pessac.
GravelSandClay
Food Pairings
Roast lambGrilled pigeonMushroom dishesAged cheese
Notable Producers
- Château Haut-Brion, founded 1525 - Haut-Brion Rouge
- Château Smith Haut Lafitte, founded 1365 - Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge