Chateau Haut Bages Liberal Pauillac 2018

Château Haut-Bages Libéral is a Fifth Growth (Grand Cru Classé) estate in the Pauillac appellation on Bordeaux's Left Bank, known for producing bold, structured wines with great ageing potential. The château's 30-hectare vineyard is uniquely split between two prime locations: one part in the historic “Bages” parcel and the other bordering the renowned Château Latour, running along the Gironde Estuary. The estate's gravel and clay-limestone soils contribute to the wine's refined minerality and complexity. Since 2007, the property has embraced biodynamic practices and agroecology, enhancing the natural expression of its terroir.

The 2018 vintage is composed of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon and 21% Merlot, following the classic Pauillac profile. The high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon ensures structure, deep black fruit flavours, and longevity, while Merlot brings roundness and supple tannins, adding charm to the blend. This vintage is rich, full-bodied, and age-worthy, offering a perfect balance between intensity and finesse.

The estate practices plot-by-plot vinification, adapting fermentation times and temperatures to each parcel. The wine undergoes maceration for 24 days with gentle pumping over once per day to enhance extraction while preserving finesse. Vertical pressing is used for optimal precision. Ageing lasts for 16 months, divided into 40% new oak barrels, 40% one-year-old barrels, and 20% egg-shaped concrete vats, which help maintain purity and freshness.

It is complex, full-bodied, and mineral-driven, with beautifully integrated tannins. The nose is expressive and layered, offering aromas of blackcurrant, cassis, and dark cherries, intertwined with hints of graphite, tobacco, and cedar. On the palate, it is rich and concentrated, displaying ripe black fruit, spice, and subtle floral notes. The texture is silky yet firm, with great precision and a long, mineral-laced finish. This vintage is already impressive but has the structure to age gracefully for two decades or more.

This red wine pairs perfectly with roast lamb, grilled ribeye steak, and venison, as well as truffle-infused dishes and aged cheeses like Comté or Gruyère. Decant for one hour before serving at 16–18°C.