2004 Haut Bailly
By Chateau Haut Bailly
2004 Haut Bailly from Chateau Haut Bailly, Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux
In the lush vineyards of Pessac-Leognan, Chateau Haut Bailly produced a consummate expression of terroir in the 2004 vintage. An exemplar of Bordeaux's fine wine tapestry, the 2004 Haut Bailly captivates with its provenance and poised composition—a testament to the winemaking acumen prevalent at this noble estate.
Vintage Virtuosity: A Needle in the Haystack
Faced with variable conditions, the 2004 vintage across Bordeaux was a challenge that yielded treasures for those with keen insight and patience. In this canvas of complexity, the 2004 Haut Bailly emerged as a connoisseur's delight. With amiable autumn weather ensuring optimal ripeness and meticulously overseen vinification processes, this wine represents a harmonious union of tenacity and finesse.
Tasting Notes: An Elaborate Symphony
The tasting journey of the 2004 Haut Bailly unveils a panorama of olfactory grace—classic notes of blackcurrant and plums infused with hints of cigar box and cedar. On the palate, it dances with a medium-bodied structure, while finely-grained tannins and judicious oak integration add depth. The finish lingers with an elegant trail of spice and earthiness—a hallmark of distinguished winemaking.
For the investor with discernment, Chateau Haut Bailly's 2004 offering stands not merely as a liquid asset but as a compendium of clairvoyant viticultural decisions amid capricious skies. Balanced for current enjoyment yet structured for further cellar maturation, it presents an opportunity for portfolio diversification that aligns with both aesthetic zeal and sagacious economic foresight.
Investment Palette: A Colour of Opportunity
As fine wine investment becomes ever more intricate, vintages such as the 2004 Haut Bailly present themselves as astute acquisitions. One must consider the splendid lineage it upholds within Chateau Haut Bailly's storied legacy—a narrative interwoven with both climatic challenges and cultivated victories.
Indubitably, those who uncork or trade this particular vintage will appreciate its journey from vine to vault—the 2004 Haut Bailly is not just a bottle but an embodiment of Bordeaux's resilience and reward.
Market price (GBP)
£690.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
53.08
Scores and tasting notes
The 2004 Haut-Bailly is a candidate for the finest wine of the appellation. Its dark ruby/purple color is accompanied by classic aromas of scorched earth, sweet black currants, cherries, and a hint of pain grille. Light on its feet, but substantially flavored, it possesses stunning purity, good acidity, ripe tannin, and abundant flavor as well as length. It builds incrementally and subtly in the mouth, but it's the real deal. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2024.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #171 June 2007
Tasted at Berry Brother & Rudd's vertical. The 2004 Haut Bailly has a deep garnet colour. The nose is a little reticent at first and the unfurls in the glass with blackberry, mocha and graphite, a lactic note suggesting that there is still some wood to be integrated. The palate is medium-bodied with fine balance and filigree tannins. This is a patently not a Chateau Haut-Bailly of power or intensity, but it sits back and reclines in a comfy chair. There is a dash of pepper right on the finish of this foursquare but elegant Graves that is drinking now, but should age over 15 years, possibly twenty. Tasted October 2011.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jan 2013
The racy, precise nature of this beautiful wine underlines the beautiful winemaking here. It shows plenty of smoky, berry and mineral character yet is reserved and subtle. It defines what the British call claret: it's all about finesse and balance. Drink now.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, July 1st 2013