Wines Pessac-Léognan Château Haut-Brion - 2014

Viniou Reviews

Château Haut-Brion 2014 is a prime example of the excellence found in the Pessac-Léognan appellation of Bordeaux. Crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot and often touched by Cabernet Franc, the 2014 vintage reflects both the estate’s commitment to tradition and the distinctiveness of the year. The growing season was marked by a mild spring and a cool, wet summer, but a long, warm September and October ultimately provided the ideal conditions for optimal grape maturation. The result is a sophisticated, complex wine with aromas of blackcurrant, cedar, graphite and earthy undertones, balanced with fine-grained tannins and an elegant finish. Château Haut-Brion employs meticulous vineyard management and traditional vinification, with fermentation in stainless steel vats and maturation in new French oak barrels, enabling the wine to express both its profound terroir and ageing potential.

The Pessac-Léognan area, historically part of the larger Graves region, is celebrated for its gravelly soils mixed with clay and sand. These free-draining gravels encourage the vine roots to delve deeply, producing grapes of remarkable concentration and minerality. The temperate maritime climate, with balanced rainfall and a moderating influence from the nearby forests and river, supports a slow, even ripening of the fruit. Pessac-Léognan’s reputation is further enhanced by a rich wine heritage, with Château Haut-Brion itself being one of the oldest grand crus in Bordeaux, producing acclaimed wines since the 16th century.

For food pairings, Château Haut-Brion 2014 excels alongside classic French cuisine. Traditional regional dishes like entrecôte à la bordelaise (grilled rib-eye with a red wine and shallot sauce) work beautifully, as do roast lamb with herbs, game birds such as pheasant or guinea fowl, and earthy mushroom risottos. Strong hard cheeses, like aged Comté or Pecorino, also make an excellent match.

When serving, decant the wine about an hour in advance to allow its aromas to unfold. The ideal tasting temperature is between 16-18°C, which will reveal all the finesse and complexity of this distinguished Bordeaux Grand Cru.