Tasting Notes

92
Vinous Neal Martin - 01 Sep 19
The 1999 Haut-Brion is a very fine vintage from the estate, although it is probably overshadowed by the overachieving 1998. This bottle has the sensuality on the nose that I have observed before but is a little more opulent than I recall, yet very delineated with black truffle, cedar and cigar humidor infusing the black fruit. The palate is well balanced with soft, almost velvety tannin. There is a sweet candied core of fruit in situ, laced with orange peel and black cherries. It fans out nicely toward the finish, which is generous rather than complex. Perfect to drink now, though I can envisage this giving another 20 years of drinking pleasure. Tasted from an ex-château bottle at the estate.
Drinking Date: 2019 - 2040
Pessac-Léognan Fine Wine

Pessac-Leognan

Pessac-Léognan, an esteemed Bordeaux appellation in the Graves region, is renowned for both red and white wines. The reds are elegant and complex, with earthy notes, blackcurrant, plum, tobacco, and graphite, supported by refined tannins and excellent ageing potential. The whites, primarily from Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, are fresh, aromatic, and balanced, with citrus, tropical fruit, and floral notes, plus a creamy texture from barrel ageing. Top producers include Château Haut-Brion, Château La Mission Haut-Brion, Château Smith Haut Lafitte, and Château Pape Clément.