2004 Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan

“Gorgeous smoke and concentration on the nose, retaining largely primary fruit character even at 16 years old. This remains focused on cassis and black cherry character, touches of a bitter black chocolate and still clearly confident tannins. Harvest September 27 to October 18. Less graceful than some years like 2001, at least at this stage, but fresh, ripe and still young, which translates into huge promise for future development. (JA)” (07/2020)

“The 2004 Haut-Bailly is a candidate for the finest wine of the appellation. Its dark ruby/purple color is accompanied by classic aromas of scorched earth, sweet black currants, cherries, and a hint of pain grille. Light on its feet, but substantially flavored, it possesses stunning purity, good acidity, ripe tannin, and abundant flavor as well as length. It builds incrementally and subtly in the mouth, but it’s the real deal. (RP)” (06/2007)

“A beautifully balanced, harmonious wine - as so often in recent years from Haut-Bailly - this is the epitome of deliciously drinkable Bordeaux. The wild strawberry flavors and the elegant, velvet texture are balanced by firm, structured tannins. Like other vintages from Haut-Bailly, expect this to develop over many years. *Cellar Selection* (RV)” (06/2007)

“Another wine that shines in the vintage, the 2004 Château Haut-Bailly has a classic, almost old school-like vibe in its cedary red and black fruit, but it brings solid sweetness and depth of fruit on the palate, with silky tannins as well as nicely integrated acidity. It has some rock-solid mid-palate depth as well, and this meaty, complex, satisfying effort will evolve for another 7-8 years and have a gradual decline after that.” (10/2023)

“The 2004 Haut-Bailly is a vintage where I feel that the estate went up a gear. It is noticeably deep in colour. Now, this has much more vigour and clarity on the nose compared to the 2003, with blackberry, briary, cedar and mint. Great focus and energy here. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins, well judged acidity, lightly spiced black fruit with a marine element that I have not noticed in prior vintage. There is commendable depth and concentration on the finish - this is worth seeking out. The decade's dark horse? Tasted at the Haut-Bailly vertical at the château. (NM)” (06/2021)

“Tannins wash over the red-berry fruit component of this wine, which feels complete if not yet evolved. The potent tannic structure grows more expansive with air, a pure mineral essence for now. The fruit keeps it sleek with its own stony complexities waiting to develop. A classical Bordeaux for the cellar.” (10/2007)

“Blackberry and licorice aromas follow through to a full-bodied palate, with velvety tannins and a long, rich aftertaste. Lots going on. This is an excellent wine and close to the 2000 in quality. (JS)” (03/2007)

“The racy, precise nature of this beautiful wine underlines the beautiful winemaking here. It shows plenty of smoky, berry and mineral character yet is reserved and subtle. It defines what the British call claret: it’s all about finesse and balance.” (07/2013)

“Plum, redcurrant, mocha, tobacco, licorice, minerals and a gravelly note on the nose, along with some nutty oak. Supple and fruity, with an impression of strong acidity for the year and plenty of underlying minerality. This shows less density and structure than the 2006 but possesses excellent fruit for the year. Ripe enough but quite dry. (ST) 90+” (06/2007)

“Good colour, slightly lighter rim. Lively and fresh with a hedgerow nuance to the fruit. Some undergrowth as well. Palate on the leafy side of maturity but fruit still present. Very digeste. Tannins tender and well managed. Firm finish with a bit of length. (JR)” (07/2020)