Wines Pessac-Léognan Château Haut-Brion - 2017

Château Haut-Brion 2017, from the illustrious Pessac-Léognan appellation in the Graves sub-region of Bordeaux, stands as a paragon of French winemaking. Bearing the rare distinction of Premier Grand Cru Classé in the 1855 classification, this iconic red wine is typically a masterful blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, although the precise proportions may vary from vintage to vintage. The 2017 vintage, shaped by an early spring frost followed by favourable summer conditions, offers remarkable finesse and purity. The vinification is rooted in tradition, with gentle extraction, long maceration and maturation in new French oak barrels, which imparts subtle spices and structure while preserving the signature elegance and depth of Haut-Brion.

Pessac-Léognan, within the historic heart of Bordeaux’s Graves, boasts gravelly soils layered with quartz and pebbles, ensuring excellent drainage and a unique mineral signature in the wines. The temperate maritime climate, moderated by the nearby Atlantic, encourages slow, steady ripening, which is essential for developing the layered aromatics and structured tannins found in Haut-Brion’s wines. The region’s history is illustrious: Pessac-Léognan is one of Bordeaux’s oldest winegrowing areas, with noble estates and vineyards dating back centuries, cultivating a legacy of excellence and innovation.

To accompany this distinguished wine, select dishes that enhance its complex bouquet and refined structure. Rack of lamb roasted with herbs, beef Wellington, or a succulent duck breast would all marry beautifully with the silky tannins and layered fruit. For a distinctly regional pairing, consider canard aux cèpes (duck with porcini mushrooms) or entrecôte à la Bordelaise, featuring red wine reduction. Mature cheeses such as aged Comté or Salers are equally harmonious.

For optimal enjoyment, decant Château Haut-Brion 2017 for two to three hours before serving. The ideal drinking temperature is 16-18°C, which will allow the wine to express its full aromatic complexity and supple texture. This vintage promises a sublime experience now but will reward further aging for those who appreciate the evolution of great Bordeaux.