Haut Brion 1996 3L

1996 Haut-Brion is a complex and intriguing wine that defies easy categorization. While the grapes had high acidity levels, the resulting wine is surprisingly subtle and refined. Despite unusually high sugar levels, the phenolic ripeness varied among the different grape varieties, with the Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon showing greater ripeness than the Merlots. Compared to the previous year's crop, the quality was very similar, but the wine's structure was different. Unlike the tannins of the 1995 vintage, which were notably strong, the tannins of the 1996 vintage finish with a light bitter taste on the palate. Despite this, the wine is ample, with a good structure and a pleasing harmony that bodes well for its future development.

Overall, Chateau Haut-Brion 1996 is a very good wine that has the potential to become an excellent Haut-Brion with age. Its contradictions and complexities make it a wine that is both challenging and rewarding to experience.

Robert Parker - 95 Points

"While in some vintages La Mission Haut-Brion and Haut-Brion can be close in quality, that is not the case in this vintage. The 1996 Haut-Brion, a blend of 50% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11% Cabernet Franc is clearly on a higher plane than the La Mission. There is something much more expansive and complete on the nose: greater depth of fruit, more harmonious with scents of underbrush, tar, black olive and this bottle perhaps less "feral" than I have noticed on previous examples. The palate is very well balanced with dark cherries, sous-bois and cedar. This is one vintage where I think the Cabernet Franc plays an important role and lends more complexity. This is a 1996 that has retained and built upon beguiling fleshiness and it will continue to evolve with style and panache. Tasted July 2016."

Antonio Galloni - 92 Points

"Full ruby-red. Initially mute nose opened slowly to reveal complex aromas of raspberry, plum, hot stones, tobacco, saddle leather and toffee. Really explodes on the palate; lush and minerally, with a compelling note of woodsmoke and firm acidity. Wonderful combination of sweetness and vibrancy. Finishes very long and subtle, with firm tannins. "