At a glance

Producer

Château Haut-Bailly

Region

Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$180-$245 USD (750ml, global retail range as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Black cherry, cassis, graphite, savory herbs, subtle cedar, finely woven oak, mineral finish; subtle floral and earthy notes emerging.

Evolution: Continued softening of tannins, emergence of tobacco, sous-bois, truffle and tertiary notes over next 5-10 years.

At peak: Supple, complete complexity and elegance; signature Haut-Bailly finesse with tertiary flavors by 2025-2035.

Structure

Acidity

Medium to medium-plus; supporting freshness and aging

Tannins

Fine-grained, velvety, integrated but present

Alcohol

13.5% ABV

Aging potential

Excellent; can cellar up to 25+ years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2054

Optimal window

2023 to 2057

Current status

Ready to drink

Current condition

Structured, elegant and complex; tannins refined but still with freshness. Ready to enjoy now, will continue to improve over next decade-plus.

The 2015 vintage benefited from a warm, balanced season, giving ripe fruit but also fine structure. Haut-Bailly is known for finesse and longevity; this wine builds complexity in bottle, with the tannins and acidity supporting gradual evolution for decades.

Food pairing

Roast lamb, dry-aged beef, duck breast, wild mushrooms, Comté or aged Gruyère; earthy, umami-rich, and savory dishes.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — Enhances aromatic complexity and softens structure for youthful bottles; even mature bottles open well after a short decant.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Emphasis on soil biodiversity, extensive cover cropping, minimal chemical inputs, integrated pest management; energy reforms for lower electricity use; ongoing water conservation initiatives and rainwater management; lighter bottles and recycled packaging as of 2020s.

Château Haut-Bailly is part of a new wave of sustainable Bordeaux estates, focusing on biodiversity, reducing agrochemicals, and energy efficiency. No organic/biodynamic status due to Bordeaux's challenging viticulture, but strong environmental stewardship and recent HVE Level 3 certification indicate major sustainability progress. Packaging and energy improvements continue. International shipping is carbon impactful, but compared to Bordeaux peers, Haut-Bailly is above average for environmental responsibility.