2024 Haut-Bailly II, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux

Medium intensity ruby colour, and lovely aromatics, really comes out in waves, soft, charming, gentle, extremely carefully constructed, this is a lovely wine, sweet berries and woodsmoke, has an effortless feeling. No need to wait too long, hard to argue with. Harvest 18 September to 4 October, 30hl/h yield.

Notes of dark cherries and flowers preface the 2024 Haut-Bailly II, a moderately weighted, lively and firm wine with a slightly peppery, spicy finish due to the proportion of Petit Verdot. This blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc is delicately perfumed.

The 2024 Haut-Bailly II was picked from September 18 to October 4, with Petit Verdot in this year's blend. It has a light bouquet that's well defined, with a mixture of red and black fruit and gravel scents percolating through with time. The 30% new oak is nicely integrated. The palate is medium-bodied and fresh with grainy tannins, black pepper and tobacco notes. This is a little drier than anticipated, but it has fine balance. Drink this after a year or two.

The 2024 Haut-Bailly II is soft, open-knit and gracious. Silky tannins wrap around a core of macerated cherry, blood orange, spice and new leather. Medium in body and nicely layered, the Haut-Bailly II is all class. The 2024 is aromatic and delicate, with lovely inner perfume and fine balance.

Lots of red berries with a nice touch of red bell peppers. This is quite pretty and fluid on the palate, with red fruit and a touch of olives. Barely medium-bodied on the palate, with very soft tannins. 45% cabernet sauvignon, 45% merlot, 8% petit verdot and 2% cabernet franc.

The second wine of Haut-Bailly, the 2024 Haut Bailly II, is based on 45% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, and 2% Cabernet Franc that's resting in 30% new barrels. It's a pretty, medium-bodied effort with lively red fruits, flowers, spicy nuances, soft, supple tannins, and a forward, charming style that will drink beautifully right out of the gate.

Deep garnet-purple colored. Notes of raspberry pie and Morello cherries spill from the glass, giving way to hints of rose bud tea, cinnamon stick, and pencil lead. The medium-bodied palate is juicy and soft-textured with just enough freshness and a spicy lift on the finish.