Château Haut-Bailly 2006

Château Haut-Bailly stands as a beacon of viticultural excellence in the heart of the Pessac-Léognan appellation within Bordeaux, France. It was acquired by the late American banker Robert Wilmers and is currently owned by his family.

Nestled on the left bank of the Garonne River, Château Haut-Bailly boasts vineyards that are meticulously tended, producing grapes of exceptional quality. The estate's terroir, marked by gravelly soils and a favorable microclimate, imparts unique characteristics to the wines, resulting in a portfolio that reflects the essence of Pessac-Léognan.

The château's winemaking philosophy seamlessly marries tradition with innovation. With a heritage dating back centuries, Château Haut-Bailly embraces modern techniques to ensure the wines achieve their fullest expression while respecting the integrity of the land.

Visitors to Château Haut-Bailly are treated to a sensory journey through the vineyards, cellars, and, ultimately, the glass. The estate's wines are celebrated for their balance, complexity, and the ability to age gracefully, embodying the timeless allure of Bordeaux.

Château Haut-Bailly's enduring legacy in the world of wine is a testament to its unwavering pursuit of excellence and its role in defining the standards for Pessac-Léognan and Bordeaux wines as a whole.

"A superb success for the vintage, the 2006 exhibits a deep ruby/purple hue as well as a poised, classic bouquet of sweet black cherries, graphite, camphor, truffles, and a subtle hint of oak. Medium-bodied with a stunningly layered texture, impressive purity, and beautiful balance, this cuvée is haute couture in a glass. Although surprisingly approachable, it won't hit its adolescent stage for 8-10 years, and will last for 25-30 years thereafter. Bravo! It is extraordinary to see what the American proprietor, a banker from Buffalo, NY, Robert Wilmers and Veronique Sanders, the granddaughter of the former proprietor, have accomplished at Haut-Bailly. Together they are pushing this outstanding terroir to first-growth quality levels. It is an amazing success story, and readers looking for a quintessentially elegant Bordeaux need look no further than Haut-Bailly." - Neal Martin, The Wine Advocate (5/29/2016) Ratings: 93, Drink: 2019-2040

"The 2006 Château Haut-Bailly is more forward and charming, but it's another seriously good wine. Dried flowers, currants, chocolate, sandalwood, cigar, and graphite all shine here, and it's one of those wines you could just smell all evening. With plenty of mid-palate depth, medium to full body, and ripe, integrated tannins, drink this beauty over the coming 10-12 years." - Jeb Dunnuck (10/19/2023) Ratings: 94, Drink: 2023-2035