Le Clarte de Haut Brion, Pessac Léognan, 2022

The blend here is 54% Sauvignon and 46% Semillon, less Semillon than usual, while the élevage was in 38% new oak. Crushed citrus fruit, candle wax, a touch of dried apricot, with some green leafy edges on the nose. A rather simple start to the palate, with shy fruit, a rather restrained Semillon substance while the Sauvignon aromatics aren’t showing too strongly, and the overall impact feels rather low-key. It certainly has substance though, and a gentle but undeniable phenolic grip, so this does have something to offer. It culminates in a soft, sappy, powdery finish. Coming back to it a second time it does show more form, and perhaps benefits from some air, nevertheless I think I would drink this cool, and fairly young, as it does not have the greatest energy level. The alcohol on the label is 14%.

DRINKING WINDOW 2024 - 2030

date of review 06/2025

The 2022 La Clarté de Haut-Brion has a light, finely delineated bouquet with grapefruit, kiwi fruit and a light sea spray scent. The palate is well balanced with delicate pear and melon notes. It is lightly spiced with a bright finish. Fine.

DRINKING WINDOW 2025 - 2036

date of review 02/2025

Apricot pit, pineapple, lemongrass, dried apricots, this has the richness of the vintage but is well balanced with sage and white pepper notes, adding a touch of juice. Jean-Philippe Delmas' grandfather began managing the chateau in 1923, so 2022 marks 100 years of the Delmas family at Haut-Brion (just a few years longer than the Dillons). 38% new oak.

DRINKING WINDOW 2023 - 2027

date of review 05/2023