2003 Bahans Haut Brion
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Tasting notes
The second wine, the 2003 Bahans Haut-Brion (before the name change to Le Clarence) shows complex unsmoked cigar tobacco notes intermixed with burning embers, charcoal, black currant and cherries in a medium-bodied, fleshy, complex and stunning display of fruit, body and richness. The tannins are resolved, the acidity low and the wine gorgeous now. It should continue to drink well for another 5-6 years. There is no reason to defer your gratification with this beauty. These are two great successes in this vintage that have aged well and surprised me by their intensity and overall complexity.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Dark crimson with age on the rim. Sweet and rather dried fruit on the nose. Easy but slack. Quite chewy finish. Drying tannins. (Average group score: 14.7) (JR)
Good dark red. Complex aromas of raspberry, tobacco and minerals. Sweet, lush and stuffed with fruit. Finishes with ripe tannins and excellent length. As ripe and expressive as this is, it's evolving at a leisurely pace.
Good red-ruby. Sappy, liqueur-like aromas of roasted dark raspberry and minerals. Sweet, broad, deep and full, with a terrific core of chocolate and hot stones. Finishes with substantial lush tannins and lovely length.
About the producer
Ch. Haut-Brion is the only classified growth in Pessac-Léognan. One of the five First Growths, it is renowned for producing both exceptional reds and whites. Along with its sister estate, Ch. la Mission Haut-Brion, it is part of the Clarence Dillon stable.