Appellations

Haut Bages Liberal 2011

Pauillac, Fifth Growth

GBP Price: Size Quantities Units status Estimated price Actions
£245 per Case Bottle (75cl) 0 - £220 - £300  per Case [Add to waiting list]
Scores:
Robert Parker Jancis Robinson Albany Vintners Wine Spectator Neal Martin Decanter
87 - 89 16 - 17 - 89 - 92 87 - 89 16 - 17
Tasting Notes:

A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot, the HBL has a well defined, understated bouquet with crisp redcurrant and orange sorbet aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with quite firm tannins and the finish is missing a little tension at this stage. This year, I think Clare made a better Margaux, but this is not bad at all. Tasted April 2012.

Score: 87 - 89 Neal Martin, erobertparker.com Date: Monday 30 April 2012

Smoky black currant and black cherry fruit aromas jump from the glass of this deep plum/purple-colored Pauillac. Soft, seductive tannins, medium body and excellent fruit as well as ripeness give this wine an endearing style with plenty of appeal. While there is not a lot of weight, there is an up-front forwardness that should provide attractive drinking over the next decade.

Score: 87 - 89 Robert Parker, Wine Advocate Maturity: 2012-2022 Date: Monday 30 April 2012

Dark black cherry colour. Really sweet blackcurrant and blueberry fruit, and a roasted note, dark chocolate. Unexpectedly silky and fluid on the palate though there's still a marked oak char on the finish. (JH)

Score: 16 - 17 Jancis Robinson MW, Jancisrobinson.com Maturity: 2017-2029 Date: Monday 16 April 2012

Lifted, slightly spicy cassis fruit, in a lighter, almost Margaux style, with fine freshness and length.

Score: 16 - 17 Decanter, Decanter.com Maturity: 2014-2024 Date: Monday 16 April 2012

Lively, with good lift and floral aromatics followed by a fresh mix of red cherry, black cherry, red currant and black currant. Nice tarry edge creeps in on the finish.

Score: 89 - 92 James Molesworth, Wine Spectator Date: Wednesday 11 April 2012

Pretty core of fruit and ripe tannins follow through a medium body with polished tannins and a minerally, fruity and delicate finish.

Score: 89 - 90 James Suckling, Jamessuckling.com Date: Sunday 01 April 2012