Château Haut-Brion 1996 – Pessac-Léognan Bordeaux
A legend from Bordeaux with timeless elegance

Château Haut-Brion 1996 embodies everything that defines Bordeaux. This iconic 1er Grand Cru Classé from Pessac-Léognan unites power, finesse, and depth in perfect harmony. A wine for both collectors and connoisseurs seeking the extraordinary.

The 1996 vintage was marked by shifting weather – sunny days followed by rain, and a moderate summer. Yet Haut-Brion crafted a wine of remarkable structure and complexity – a testament to the estate’s masterful craftsmanship and centuries of experience.

Tasting Notes

The color is dark and intense – almost ink-black in the glass.
The bouquet reveals ripe blackcurrant, cherry, and blackberry, underpinned by notes of cedarwood, tobacco, and toasted oak, followed by hints of leather and truffle. Subtle mineral tones add depth and elevate the overall impression.

On the palate, the wine is rich and velvety. Layers of dark berries, chocolate, and spice unfold with elegance. The structure is dense yet refined, leading to a long, persistent finish. Here, the terroir of Pessac-Léognan reveals its signature: mineral, complex, and sophisticated.

Vinification and Terroir

Château Haut-Brion lies in the heart of Pessac-Léognan, just a few kilometers from Bordeaux. The soil consists of the famous gravel beds – graves – which impart the wines with their unique minerality and freshness.

The grapes are hand-harvested, and only the finest clusters are selected. The wine is a classic Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. After fermentation, it is aged in French oak barrels, a large proportion of which are new, adding depth, complexity, and a refined touch of toasted wood.

The result is a wine of perfect balance, strength, and tremendous aging potential.

The Story of Château Haut-Brion

Château Haut-Brion is the oldest wine estate in Bordeaux. Its wines were first mentioned in written records as early as 1521. Through the centuries, the château has been synonymous with luxury, innovation, and uncompromising quality.

In 1935, American financier Clarence Dillon purchased the estate and restored it to greatness. Today, Prince Robert of Luxembourg continues the family legacy with the same passion and dedication.

As one of the original Premier Grand Cru Classé estates from the 1855 classification, Haut-Brion remains a beacon of Bordeaux excellence – a name that commands respect and admiration worldwide.