Chateau Haut Brion   Haut Brion

2014 Haut Brion

By Chateau Haut Brion

2014 Haut Brion from Chateau Haut Brion, Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux

The vinous chronicles of Bordeaux are replete with tales of finesse and strength, elegance and structure - qualities that are quintessentially captured in the 2014 Haut Brion from Chateau Haut Brion. This year was one not initially heralded, coming as it did on the heels of the celebrated trio of 2009, 2010, and arguably the more challenging 2013. Nonetheless, what emerged from the vineyards of Pessac-Leognan in 2014 was a testament to the adaptability and resilience of this storied terroir.

 

Fruit of the Vines: The Artful Composition of 2014

2014 was a vigneron's vintage, swinging between extremes—starting cool then vaulting into unanticipated warmth come harvest. In the capable hands at Chateau Haut Brion, such fluctuation wrought a momentous wine with verve and vibrancy. The 2014 Haut Brion quietly defies expectations with its intricate play of vivacious red and black fruits against an earthy backdrop—a painterly blend where aromas brush alongside flavours to create a mosaic that is both rich and precise.

 

Serving Sophistication: The Investment Perspective

For the connoisseur with an eye towards investment, the 2014 Haut Brion presents a compelling option—one reflecting Chateau Haut Brion's impeccable pedigree while also offering an accessible entry point amidst its more lauded siblings. It bears the hallmark grace expected from one of Bordeaux’s noble estates coupled with a vitality that suggests a rather favourable evolution in the cellar.

The consummate poise of form and flourish found in this liquid narrative is evocative of what makes Pessac-Leognan wines so compelling—a dance between fruit and tannin, potential and performance. And within this balance lies the opportunity for savouring or storage; a dual appeal to both collectors and those seeking immediate gratification on their palates.

In summarising, the 2014 Haut Brion encapsulates an artistry shaped by its year—dynamic yet delicate, modern yet mindful of its lineage—a première illustration of what astute selection and ageing can yield from this renowned estate. A worthy addition to any portfolio or private collection; it remains emblematic of investment-grade wine at its articulate best.

Current market price

$6,572.32

12x75cl

Highest score

96

POP score

246.81

Scores and tasting notes

95-96

No tasting note available.

James Suckling - Jamesuckling.com (04/2015)

96

No tasting note available.

Tim Atkin - TimAtkin.com (04/2015)

95-98

No tasting note available.

Wine Spectator - The Wine Spectator

96

The 2014 Haut Brion is a blend of 50% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc and 39% Cabernet Sauvignon picked between 11 September and 10 October, cropped at 42.9 hectoliters per hectare and raised in 70% new oak. As I observed when I made the comparison in barrel, the Haut Brion exudes more red fruit than La Mission Haut Brion, adorned with wild strawberry, bilberry, tobacco and again, just that hint of menthol in the background. The palate is very fresh and taut on the entry. The acidity is very nicely pitched and there is a touch of marmalade and blood orange that is tangible at the back of the mouth. There is real frisson to this Haut Brion, not quite as seductive and as smooth as its sibling over the road, but very persistent in the mouth. I noticed that over 15 to 20 minutes that the Haut Brion just gained more and more complexity, putting a small distance between itself and La Mission, as if determined to mock my opinion in barrel that La Mission would have the upper hand! Be my guest. Haut Brion has an inch, just an inch ahead of its "rival" sibling.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 31 March 2017

93-95

No tasting note available.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate

Vintage performance