Haut Bages Liberal 2019

The 2019 Haut-Bages-Libéral has turned out superbly, offering up aromas of wild berries, cassis, licorice, rose petals and sweet soil tones, followed by a medium to full-bodied, velvety and seamless palate, its powdery structuring tannins hidden in an ample core of lively, succulent fruit. From biodynamically farmed vineyards located on clay-limestone and gravel soils to the north of Château Latour (as well as a parcel of gravel sandwiched between Pichon-Baron and Lynch-Bages), this is a terrific effort from an estate that deserves to be much better known. Drink Date 2026 - 2060

The 2019 Haut Bages Libéral has a gentle nose that needs a little coaxing from the glass, eventually offering blackberry, briar, cedar and very light pencil shaving aromas. The harmonious palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and nicely judged acidity. It’s a bit of a deceptive Pauillac, the back end revealing plenty of juicy black fruit and tobacco and a pinch of black pepper on the aftertaste. A beautiful wine from Claire Villars-Lurton. Drink 2024-2048.

The cabernet sauvignon is coming out beautifully here with a full body and very polished, chewy tannins. Chocolate, walnuts and spice. Full and racy with wonderful length and purity. Classic style. From biodynamically grown grapes.