Category:
 
Red Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Red Wines
Producer:
 
Clarence Haut Brion
Label Name:
 
Pessac Leognan 2nd Wine
Vintage:
 
2009
Country:
 
France
Region:
 
Pessac-Léognan (Graves), Bordeaux
Volume:
 
750ml
ABV:
 
14%
Grape(s):
 
Merlot 46%, Cabernet Sauvignon 39%, Cabernet Franc 13%, Petit Verdot 2%.
Method:
 
Traditional Bordeaux vinification: hand-harvested (Sept 9–Oct 6, 2009), fermented by variety, aged in oak (23% new barrels), blended and bottled July 2011.
Acidity:
 
3
Tannins:
 
4
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
4
Length:
 
4
Aroma Intensity:
 
4
Best Temperature:
 
16-18
Tasting Note:
 
Understated nose that opens with aeration to reveal black cherry, cassis, graphite, tobacco and truffle. Initially tight and tannic, it softens into a long, mineral-driven, concentrated finish.
Food Pairing:
 
Western: roast lamb, seared beef, braised short ribs, aged hard cheeses. Asian: Peking duck, char siu, soy-braised beef, Korean BBQ, mushroom hot pot.
Vineyard Info:
 
Produced by Château Haut-Brion (Clarence Dillon family). The estate renamed its second wine Le Clarence de Haut-Brion (formerly Bahans Haut-Brion) beginning with the 2007 vintage.
Awards/Ratings:
 
Wine Advocate: 92/100 (noted as best second wine since 1989). Vinous: ~92/100. James Suckling: 95/100. J. Robinson: 17+/20. (Sources: Wine Advocate, Vinous, James Suckling, J. Robinson)