2012 Haut Bailly
By Chateau Haut Bailly
2012 Haut Bailly from Chateau Haut Bailly, Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux
The 2012 Haut Bailly from Chateau Haut Bailly is a testament to the resilience and inherent quality of this illustrious estate in an undulating vintage. This year drew upon the skillset of every vigneron in Bordeaux, with Pessac-Leognan facing its own unique set of climatic challenges.
Rising Elegantly Against the Odds
Despite the varied weather patterns that marked the 2012 growing season—a precocious start with unforeseen cool periods and moisture during summer months—the tenacity and precision practiced at Chateau Haut Bailly rendered a vintage that rises confidently above expectations. The 2012 Haut Bailly carefully balances concentration and finesse, a harmony echoed in its bright, articulate red fruit aromas cradled by an elegant tannic structure hinting at its deft maturation.
A Profile of Poise and Potential
The hallmark of the 2012 vintage is its poised equilibrium, a snapshot of the year's ripening saga where fruit maintained vibrancy despite adversity. A woven fabric of cassis, subtle tobacco undertones, and an undercurrent of gravel minerality borrows from the patchwork terroir of Pessac-Leognan, ensuring a presence on the palate the is both spirited and grounded. As this wine evolves in the glass, it becomes increasingly apparent that this Haut Bailly is ready for thoughtful investment, poised to develop beautifully over the coming years.
As one ventures into this claret's sensorial narrative, it delivers layers begging unravelling—it is a vintage that not only mirrors its climatic narrative but heralds the ingenuity and adaptability of Chateau Haut Bailly. For connoisseurs and investors alike, the 2012 Haut Bailly stands as one of distinction and promise—captivating now, with whispers of a future steeped in graceful complexity.
Market price (CAD)
$1,010.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
42.86
Scores and tasting notes
A beautiful red with plums and chocolate and hints of licorice. Full body, with super polished tannins. Ripe fruit with forest undergrowth, dark fruits and sweet tobacco. Goes on for minutes.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, April 4th 2013
The Grand Vin is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, picked between September 27th and October 15th. The nose is comparatively reserved, broody black fruit, wild strawberry and hint of cedar. It is nicely focused, less precocious than recent vintages. The palate is soft and very smooth on the entry. Velvety soft tannins, although it needs just a little more lift on the mid-palate. It is quite linear towards the finish, quite caressing in the mouth with just a little new oak to be absorbed. There is nice grip and persistency here – a classic Haut-Bailly. Tasted April 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2013
While the 2012 Haut-Bailly is not as powerful or rich as the 2009 and 2010, it is classically elegant, racy and noble. This medium-bodied effort is the poster child for elegance, finesse, balance and equilibrium. The Cantemerle of Pessac-Leognan? Its deep ruby/plum/purple color is followed by a sweet nose of black cherries, black currants, lead pencil shavings and a touch of spicy oak. This medium-bodied, pretty wine will benefit from 4-5 years of cellaring and last for two decades.The grand vin has been impressive under the administration of Veronique Sanders and her boss, Robert Wilmers, who has given her carte blanche to do whatever is necessary.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #206