Haut Brion 1999

The Chateau Haut-Brion 1999 is an off-vintage that should not be overlooked. At now 14 years of age it has developed a sensual bouquet with black truffle infusing the blackberry and cedar fruit, having softened since I last tasted it back in June 2009. The palate is rounded and sweet on the entry with those svelte, satin-like tannins in place. It is much more open and generous than I was expecting with hints of liquorices towards the finish that displays moderate length. Drink now-2023. Tasted December 2013.

Seductive juice. Gorgeous aromas of crushed berries, tobacco, cigars and cedar. Full to medium bodied with well-integrated tannins and a long fruity finish. Very fine indeed. Best after 2005. 12500 cases made.

Starting to show some evolution on the rim. Something rather mulch-like/farmyard on the nose. Very solid and very firm and La Mission-like. Polished texture and very mineral-influenced. A lovely drink already though with lots still to give to judge from those tannins in the background.Drink 2008-20

Deep plum, currant, and mineral notes emerge from the concentrated, beautifully balanced, pure 1999 Haut Brion. It seems to be cut from the same mold as years such as 1979 and 1985. There is a hint of graphite in the abundant fruit. The wine is medium to full-bodied, nuanced, subtle, deep, and provocatively elegant. It is made in a style that only Haut Brion appears capable of achieving. The finish is extremely long, the tannins sweet, and the overall impression one of delicacy interwoven with power and ripeness. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2025.