2021 Haut Bailly II
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Tasting notes
This shows currants and violets with hints of sandalwood and nutmeg. Medium body, with a crunchy undertone. The fine, creamy tannins are impressive for a second wine. 70% merlot, 25% cabernet sauvignon, 3% cabernet franc and 2% petit verdot.
Critic scores
Average Score
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Starting with the second wine of this great estate, the 2021 Haut-Bailly II is up-front and charming, with a soft, elegant profile that has some classic red and black currant fruit as well as tobacco and scorched earth. It's nicely balanced, medium-bodied, and undeniably delicious.
The 2021 Haut-Bailly II has evolved nicely on the nose since I tasted it at en primeur, cohering in the glass with blackberry, briar and subtle Earl Grey scents. Maybe it just needs a little more delineation? The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins. I appreciate the freshness and particularly the accentuated salinity of this wine, with a crisp, seaweed-tinged finish. Fine.
The 2021 Haut-Bailly II is terrific. Savory, aromatic and super-expressive, the II has so much to offer, starting with its understated complexity and overall class. Although the II is a Merlot-based wine (while the Grand Vin leans on Cabernet Sauvignon), it very much captures the personality of the estate. I find it exquisite and extremely delicious.
About the producer
Quality at this château, now one of Pessac-Léognan’s leading wine estates, has risen exponentially under the reign of Véronique Sanders, with the property known for crafting wines of elegance and poise.