Chateau Haut Brion 1996
Produced in France, specifically within the Pessac-Leognan appellation of the Graves region, this wine is the flagship red of the legendary Château Haut-Brion. As the oldest of the Bordeaux first growths, with history traceable to the 1st century, it holds the unique double distinction of being both a Premier Grand Cru Classé from the 1855 classification and a Classified Growth of the Graves. The estate has been owned by the American Dillon family since 1935, maintaining a winemaking philosophy that prioritizes elegance, finesse, and a profound respect for its unique deep gravel terroir.
Wine Description
The 1996 vintage presents a deep ruby-red or garnet colour in the glass, now showing subtle browning or bricking at the rim as it reaches maturity. Its complex sensory profile opens with expressive aromas of blackcurrant, tobacco leaf, cedar, and the estate's hallmark smoky character, alongside hints of truffle, graphite, and loamy soil. On the medium to full-bodied palate, the wine reveals layers of dark cherry, plum, and savoury spices, supported by silky, well-integrated tannins and a vibrant line of acidity. Composed of 50% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 11% Cabernet Franc, this powerful yet refined wine boasts a long, mineral-driven finish. It has entered its optimal drinking window and is expected to age gracefully through 2046.
Accolades
Wine Advocate - 98 points
Vinous - 97 points
Wine Spectator - 96 points
Decanter - 93 points
Produced in France, specifically within the Pessac-Leognan appellation of the Graves region, this wine is the flagship red of the legendary Château Haut-Brion. As the oldest of the Bordeaux first growths, with history traceable to the 1st century, it holds the unique double distinction of being both a Premier Grand Cru Classé from the 1855 classification and a Classified Growth of the Graves. The estate has been owned by the American Dillon family since 1935, maintaining a winemaking philosophy that prioritizes elegance, finesse, and a profound respect for its unique deep gravel terroir.
Wine Description
The 1996 vintage presents a deep ruby-red or garnet colour in the glass, now showing subtle browning or bricking at the rim as it reaches maturity. Its complex sensory profile opens with expressive aromas of blackcurrant, tobacco leaf, cedar, and the estate's hallmark smoky character, alongside hints of truffle, graphite, and loamy soil. On the medium to full-bodied palate, the wine reveals layers of dark cherry, plum, and savoury spices, supported by silky, well-integrated tannins and a vibrant line of acidity. Composed of 50% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 11% Cabernet Franc, this powerful yet refined wine boasts a long, mineral-driven finish. It has entered its optimal drinking window and is expected to age gracefully through 2046.
Accolades
Wine Advocate - 98 points
Vinous - 97 points
Wine Spectator - 96 points
Decanter - 93 points
Original: $891.25
-65%$891.25
$311.94Description
Produced in France, specifically within the Pessac-Leognan appellation of the Graves region, this wine is the flagship red of the legendary Château Haut-Brion. As the oldest of the Bordeaux first growths, with history traceable to the 1st century, it holds the unique double distinction of being both a Premier Grand Cru Classé from the 1855 classification and a Classified Growth of the Graves. The estate has been owned by the American Dillon family since 1935, maintaining a winemaking philosophy that prioritizes elegance, finesse, and a profound respect for its unique deep gravel terroir.
Wine Description
The 1996 vintage presents a deep ruby-red or garnet colour in the glass, now showing subtle browning or bricking at the rim as it reaches maturity. Its complex sensory profile opens with expressive aromas of blackcurrant, tobacco leaf, cedar, and the estate's hallmark smoky character, alongside hints of truffle, graphite, and loamy soil. On the medium to full-bodied palate, the wine reveals layers of dark cherry, plum, and savoury spices, supported by silky, well-integrated tannins and a vibrant line of acidity. Composed of 50% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 11% Cabernet Franc, this powerful yet refined wine boasts a long, mineral-driven finish. It has entered its optimal drinking window and is expected to age gracefully through 2046.
Accolades
Wine Advocate - 98 points
Vinous - 97 points
Wine Spectator - 96 points
Decanter - 93 points
