2011 Le Clarence de Haut Brion
By Chateau Haut Brion
2011 Le Clarence de Haut Brion from Chateau Haut Brion, Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux
In the annals of Bordeaux, there are vintages that rise to legendary status and others that command a deeper exploration to truly appreciate their nuanced elegance. The 2011 Le Clarence de Haut Brion from Chateau Haut Brion elegantly defies naysayers, triumphing over the challenging conditions of the year with graceful poise and complexity.
The Essence of 2011 Captured
The growing season of 2011 in Pessac-Leognan was a vigneron's tightrope walk, balancing early heat spikes with a cool and temperamental summer. The precision in the vineyard management at Chateau Haut Brion and their meticulous attention during such variability has resulted in the Le Clarence de Haut Brion's profound expression of terroir. This vintage channels a vibrant acidity, layered with textured finesse that speaks of its noble lineage.
Investment-Worthy Sophistication
With an admirable ability to reveal the distinctive attributes of its harvest, the 2011 Le Clarence de Haut Brion marks itself as one to watch for finesse-led investors. Its composed structure suggests that it will unfurl further layers complexity over time. A combination of deep dark fruits and a hint of truffle on the nose transitions gracefully into a palate replete with cassis, earthy undertones and supple tannins. While ready to delight now, it is a compelling choice for those seeking wines that will mature beautifully.
The value proposition for wine connoisseurs and collectors is clear. As part of a diversified portfolio, the 2011 Le Clarence de Haut Brion from Chateau Haut Brion encapsulates the distinct narrative of an unassuming vintage turned venerable through skilled vinification. A testament to resilience and master crafting, this wine stands poised within cellars, promising evolution worthy of patient anticipation.
Market price (USD)
$1,342.88
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
91.67
Scores and tasting notes
This is chewy, with dried-berry and stone character, plus hints of hazelnut. Full and juicy with firm tannins. Lasts a long time on the finish. Second wine of La Mission. Better in 2016.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, February 19th 2014
The 2011 Le Clarence de Haut Brion is a blend of 71.5% Merlot, 4.5% Cabernet Franc 22.8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1.2% Petit Verdot representing around 46% of the crop (11% of the crop was declassified compared to 20% in 2010.) The nose shows a little more cohesion and fruit intensity than the La Chapelle de la Mission with ripe blackberry and a touch of Hoi Sin. The palate is medium-bodied with a gentle grip on the entry, fine acidity, the tannins a little 'fatter' and 'juicier' than the tensile La Chapelle. Good length on the finish. Very fine. Tasted April 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2012
An impressive second wine, delicious red and black currant, spice box and earth notes intertwined with an underlying floral-like character jump from the glass of the 2011 Le Clarence de Haut-Brion. Complex with silky tannins, medium to full body and a long finish, this sleeper of the vintage can be drunk early on or cellared for 10-15 years.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2014
The 2011 Le Clarence de Haut-Brion is more mineral-based than La Mission's second wine, La Chapelle. The Clarence de Haut-Brion possesses a deep ruby/purple color along with copious notes of black cherries and black currants intermixed with hints of crushed rocks and wet gravel. It's easy to tell it is from the Haut-Brion vineyard. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #200