Bahans Haut Brion, Pessac Léognan, 2005
This is a blend of 45% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and an enormous 30% Cabernet Franc, which will see 50% new oak. The nose is quite closed and powerful, and foursquare tannins on the palate would seem to be doing the job of balancing the high alcohol found in most of the Dillon wines this vintage. Great weight and ripeness to the fruit, cassis with green and white pepper, an almost steely freshness from mineral terroir and smooth tannins, giving way to very ripe blackcurrant on the finish. The balance and depth of the wine is impressive.
critic reviews
The 2005 Bahans Haut-Brion might have begun its slow decline. Here, at 20 years of age, it does possess a lovely bouquet with peppermint-tinged red fruit that has real exuberance and vivacity. So far, so good. The palate is medium-bodied with grippy tannins, perhaps a little more rustic than the La Chapelle de la Mission, and I notice that more dryness now encroaches on the finish. Perfectly enjoyable, but I would drink sooner rather than later. Tasted at the château.
An absolutely sensational second wine from Haut-Brion, the 2005 Bahans Haut-Brion displays all the smoke, gravel and chocolate notes along with ripe black fruits. Broad, savory, rich and lush, this is a sensational wine (now called Le Clarence) with gorgeous texture and length. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.