Chateau Haut-Brion

Ahhh, Chateau Haut-Brion. I had never tried a bottle before and normally, this stuff is way out of my price range. However, my good friend John had organised a tasting for me while we were in the area. The man is a star as this Chateau has been on my list to visit for quite a while. With John driving and a group of chums with me, off we went.

Entrance Hall at Chateau Haut-Brion

Firstly, for those not familiar with the Bordeaux region, it may come as a surprise to find the Chateau in a built-up area. Of course, when the Chateau was initially built in 1549 it served as a country retreat as it was then half a league away from Bordeaux. As Bordeaux has expanded in the last nearly 500 years the Chateau is now surrounded by houses, just like Chateau Pape Clement.

Vines growing in the Gravelly Terraces – outstanding Terroir

Chateau Haut-Brion has had many notable owners over the years including Talleyrand, Napoleon’s minister of foreign affairs. It is now owned by Prince Robert of Luxembourg.

Nearly Time to Harvest

My visit, in late August 2017 found the grapes nearly ready to harvest. Charlotte, our knowledgeable guide informed us that harvesting would be beginning in 7 – 10 days.

The vats already to go!

Haut-Brion’s cellars are a beautiful sight. Particularly striking is the edge of the barrels. The addition of the grip to aid in moving the barrels was not something I have seen before.

Barrels in the Haut-Brion Cellar

Tasting at Haut-Brion

As you know, I never do tasting notes as I believe taste is so subjective. What I will say is that 2011 Chateau Haut-Brion is a truly excellent wine. Subtle flavours, good balance and good colour add up to make this wine stunning.

Chateau Haut-Brion

Tasting happens in a delightful room over looking a beautiful courtyard garden.

Tasting at Chateau Haut-Brion

The courtyard garden at Haut-Brion

I found Haut-Brion to be a charming historic vineyard. With this in mind, it is well worth an hour of your time to have a look round.

Furthermore, we popped into the local supermarket to pick up some lunch on our way home and found a bottle for sale. As to whether you would wish to buy a bottle, I’ll leave that entirely up to you!