Haut Brion 1999

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.

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

The undisputed first growth of the vintage in 1998, inevitably the 1999 cannot be as great as that wine. A whopping 60% Merlot this year as the Cabernet was picked in the rain and found to be too diluted for the Grand Vin. Jean Delmas thinks that this is behind 1998 and 1995 but maybe above 1996 in quality. It is certainly a good Haut Brion with good weight, hints of chocolate and quite a firm finish. Lacks the intensity of a great Haut Brion.