Château Haut-Brion Premier Cru Classé, Pessac Leognan, 2014

Haut-Brion occupies its own singular position within the hierarchy of Bordeaux. The only First Growth not in the Médoc, it sits on deep gravel soils just southwest of the city, where the presence of clay beneath the surface gives its wines a character that stands entirely apart from the classic Left Bank profile. Merlot plays a larger role here than at any other First Growth, and in 2014, following an extraordinary September of sustained sunshine and dry conditions, the estate's fruit reached full ripeness with an elegant precision that distinguishes this wine. The nose reveals blackberry, blackcurrant, wild strawberry, menthol, tobacco, and blood orange, the aromatics layered and fine. The palate is taut and structured, with freshness and real refinement, the tannins well-knit and firm but never hard, the finish long and mineral. A beautifully composed 2014 that continues to evolve.