2000 Chateau Haut-Brion, Blanc, Pessac-Leognan 3x150cl

Robert Parker 91

The 2000 Haut Brion Blanc is a vintage that I had never tasted before. Now at 16 years of age, it has developed an elegant bouquet that feels bright and fresh, touches of honeysuckle and lanolin, just a hint of almond in the background. I appreciate the focus and energy conveyed here. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp Sauvignon-Blanc notes on the gooseberry and kiwi fruit entry, a touch of smoke and a pleasant sweetness towards the finish. What it is missing is the sense of tension and energy on the finish, and because of that I cannot envisage this repaying longer bottle ageing. So drink now and over the next 8-10 years. Tasted September 2016. [Neal Martin, 04/01/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2017-2027

Vinous 91+

Lovely green-tinged color. Cool, bright aromas of lime, pineapple, mint and minerals. Rich, chewy and full, with lovely flesh and texture. Wonderfully ripe but currently a bit unforthcoming in the middle palate. Finishes very long and ripe, with a honeyed flavor. Higher in alcohol than the 2001, at 14%, but doesn’t have the younger wine’s sheer grip and flavor extension. [Stephen Tanzer, 05/01/2002]