Haut-Bages Libéral 2018 Pauillac
5
In stock
Red
$68.99
Near Pichon-Lalande and across the road from Latour is Chateau Haut-Bages Libéral, a pioneer in regenerative agriculture in Pauillac. Under the direction of Claire Villars-Lurton the estate has been organic since 2012, with organic certification in 2019 and Biodynamic certification in 2021. "NOW, TREES, HEDGES, FLOWERING FALLOWS, CEREALS AND NATURAL GRASSING ARE MIXED WITH THE VINES. THIS ECOSYSTEM ENCOURAGES THE DEVELOPMENT OF BIODIVERSITY, PROVIDES A NATURAL BALANCE FOR THE VINE AND GUARANTEES ITS RESILIENCE," says the estate in all caps! "Dark, sweet and richly concentrated on the nose, with layers of black cherry skins, black pepper, graphite, tar and dried violets, rich yet it suggests a fresh and linear definition. The palate surprises with a little more plush 2018 texture than the nose had suggested I would find, filling out the midpalate with texture and substance, with layers of graphite, liquorice, black bean and dry currants. This is supported by a rich and generous wrapping of ripe tannins. This remains true to the Haut-Bages-Libéral style, but also seems to capture some of the ripeness, texture and structure of the vintage." (Wine Doctor 2024 tasting)
This is drinking beautifully now, but will benefit from long aeration or another 10 years in the cellar.
