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Haut Brion 1996
Graves, First Growth
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- GBP Price: £3350.00 per Case
- Action: [Add to shopping basket]
- Size: Bottle (75cl)
- Quantities:0 Case - 0 Bottle
- Units: 0
| Scores: | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wine Advocate | Wine Spectator | Burghound | Jancis Robinson.com | International Wine Cellar |
| 92 | 93 | - | 18 - 19 | 92 |
| Tasting Notes: | ||||
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The backward 1996 Haut-Brion was bottled in July, 1998. Even administrator Jean Delmas was surprised by how closed it was when I tasted it in January. Only 60% of the crop was utilized in the final blend, which was 50% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 11% Cabernet Franc. Out of barrel, this wine exhibited far more forthcoming aromatics as well as a sweeter mid-palate than it revealed from bottle. I had expected it to be more forward, and thus slightly down-graded the wine, although I am thrilled to own it and follow what appears to be a slow evolution. It will be a potentially long-lived wine. The 1996 exhibits a deep ruby/purple color, and a surprisingly tight bouquet. With aeration, notes of fresh tobacco, dried herbs, smoke, asphalt, and black fruits emerge ... but reluctantly. It is tannic and medium-bodied, with outstanding purity and a layered, multidimensional style. However, the finish contains abundant tannin, suggesting that this wine needs 5-8 years of cellaring. Score: 92 Robert Parker, Wine Advocate Maturity: 2008-2030 |
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Gorgeous aromas of crushed berries, cigar box, black licorice and tanned leather. Full-bodied, with fine silky tannins and a medium to long finish. Seems a little tight right now. But refined and pretty. Nice for the vintage.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Best after 2008. Score: 93 James Suckling, Wine Spectator Maturity: 2008+ |
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Lovely development. Absolutely classic transparent fruit in this wine which is just starting to take on weight. Score: 18 - 19 Jancis Robinson MW, Jancisrobinson.com Maturity: 2008-2020 |
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Full ruby-red. Initially mute nose opened slowly to reveal complex aromas of raspberry, plum, hot stones, tobacco, saddle leather and toffee. Really explodes on the palate; lush and minerally, with a compelling note of woodsmoke and firm acidity. Wonderful combination of sweetness and vibrancy. Finishes very long and subtle, with firm tannins. Score: 92 Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar |
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