2009 Allary Haut Brion

This builds nicely, with dark tobacco, mulled spice and roasted chestnut notes fading into the core of black Mission fig and hoisin sauce flavors. Long and very tarry through the finish, but with excellent polish despite its heft.

2009 La Passion Haut Brion will be labeled and sold under a new name, Allary, the last name of the 94 year old owner of the property. The 2008 was the first vintage in 30 years. The fruit has been a part of the second wine of Haut Brion, Bahans Haut Brion, for the past 3 decades. Produced from gravel, sand, and clay terroir, and planted with the highest proportion of cabernet franc in the Graves region, 60% cabernet franc and 40% cabernet sauvignon, this soft, elegantly styled wine offers smoke, black raspberry, herb, and spice aromas. Medium bodied and softly textured, it finishes with the flavor of smoky berries. The wine is produced with the cooperation of Stephane Derenoncourt.