Château Haut-Bailly Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 1.5 L.

ST91+ Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar May/Jun 2009

"Full ruby-red. Sappy aromas of black and blue fruits, licorice pastille and menthol lifted by a floral topnote. Then tight, dry and classic on the palate, with terrific energy and an impression of weightlessness to the youthfully imploded flavors of black fruits, minerals, camphor, cedar and tobacco. As smooth as it is, it's also quite serious and uncompromising. Showing better than a sample I tasted last year right after the bottling, but still an infant. Offers impressive cellaring potential." (91+? pts.)

SP92 Wine Spectator Mar 31, 2009

"Berries, mineral and violet on the nose follow through to a full body, with chewy tannins and a beautiful floral finish. Starts out earthy, but turns rich and beautiful. Evolves beautifully in the glass. Best after 2013. 6,665 cases made." (92 pts.)

RP95 Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate 24th Feb 2009

"A superb success for the vintage, the 2006 exhibits a deep ruby/purple hue as well as a poised, classic bouquet of sweet black cherries, graphite, camphor, truffles, and a subtle hint of oak. Medium-bodied with a stunningly layered texture, impressive purity, and beautiful balance, this cuvee is haute couture in a glass. Although surprisingly approachable, it won’t hit its adolescent stage for 8–10 years, and will last for 25–30 years thereafter. Bravo!" (95 pts.)