Charcoal, espresso roast, blackcurrants and spice are all present in this medium-bodied, nicely concentrated, relatively evolved and precocious Haut-Bergey, which is just now attaining its plateau of maturity. Soft tannins and an attractive plushness are followed by a wine capable of drinking well for another decade or more. Drink 2015-2025.
Tasted blind. Blueish crimson. Light nose. A bit simple. No evidence of the heavy tannic charge evident in most 2005s. Easy peasy.
Drink 2015-2025
Good full, deep red. Superripe aromas of redcurrant, plum, cherry, flowers and beefsteak tomato. Sweet, fat and full, but less wild and expressive today than the 2006. Distinct notes of milk chocolate and roasted berries. The major tannins currently cut off the wine's fruit. Impressively rich but lacks a spark: is this too ripe for its own good?
Modern but elegant in style. Lively, vibrant dark fruit. Good density. Finely textured, fresh and long. Drink 2012-2020.
Performing fabulously well, the 2005 Haut-Bergey may ultimately rival the estate’s brilliant 2000. Fashioned from a blend of 65% Cabernet Franc and 35% Merlot, it offers up sumptuous aromas of high-class cigar tobacco interwoven with hints of menthol, burning embers, black currants, and a volcanic/earthy component. The complex aromatics are followed by a wine with stunning concentration, terrific fruit purity, a voluptuous texture, and a long, heady finish. For its power and richness, it’s relatively light on its feet. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2025.
Unquestionably the finest wine Haut-Bergey has produced since 2000, this deep purple-colored beauty is a classic example of Pessac-Leognan’s smoky, earthy style. Sweet red and black currant fruit, scorched earth, and a subtle burning ember/smoky character emerge from this ripe, full-bodied effort. With terrific fruit, good acidity, and high but ripe tannin, it should hit its peak in 3-5 years, and last for two decades. It is a blend of equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Lots of blackberry and spices on the nose. Full-bodied, rich and powerful. Velvety tannins. Long finish.
Putty and something overripe on the nose. Very sweet and soft - not very Graves but a pleasurable, early drink
Very dark purplish crimson. Lustrous. Not much nose but neat if not especially striking palate. Lots of ripe fruit, less acidity than usual in Pessac-Léognan. Tannins very well worked. A good modern red bordeaux even if not particularly expressive of its appellation. Drink 2014-24
