Chateau Haut-Bages Liberal Pauillac, 1982

 

Robert Parker called Haut Bages a "sleeper of the vintage," and most critics agree that the estate made very good wines in the early 1980s. Paired tonight with the very good 1993 Leoville Barton, it was the unanimous favorite of everyone at the table.

Darker in color than the Leoville but also shading more toward mature tones. Bouquet is not as forward or floral as the Leoville but deeper and more subtle. Black currants and anise seed. Some dryness along the mid-palate but ripe fruit is ever present with acidity and tannin to carry it. Finish gets better with every sip. A special wine.