Overview
One of Bordeaux's five First Growths and the only 1855 First Growth located outside the Médoc, Château Haut-Brion is among the most historic and prestigious estates in Bordeaux. The 1997 vintage comes from the château's Pessac-Léognan vineyards in the northern Graves and is built around Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.
Vintage
The 1997 growing season began with hot, dry conditions that encouraged exceptionally early spring growth. Flowering was unusually early at the end of April, before cooler and wetter conditions in May delayed its completion by more than a month. A September drought ultimately supported a trouble-free harvest and helped compensate for uneven ripening.
Vineyard
Château Haut-Brion lies in Pessac, just a few miles southwest of central Bordeaux. The estate belongs to the Pessac-Léognan appellation in the northern Graves and is unique in holding both First Growth status under the 1855 Classification and Classified Growth status in Graves.
Winemaking
After harvest, the grapes were placed in vats for fermentation under controlled temperatures. Around two weeks later, once colour, tannins and aromatic components had been extracted, the wine was run off the skins. The best wines were selected for Château Haut-Brion and matured in French oak barrels for approximately 18 to 20 months.
Producer Tasting Notes
Château Haut-Brion: “Handsome color with rather dazzling nuances tending towards orange. The power and complexity of the nose is surprising in this year where one finds whiffs of cedar and cigar alongside the other particulars of the vintage. A slight aroma of wood first envelops the fruit then goes on to finish with a hint of fresh grapes. An excellent approach, both soft and supple. A good harmony for this millésime. The expected tannin is present rendering the finish a bit shorter and slightly bitter. This wine can wait for several more years.”
Awards
2 Stars — Le Guide Hachette des Vins
1997 Vintage, awarded 2001.
Producer
Château Haut-Brion is the oldest of Bordeaux's five First Growths. Its vineyards were established in the 16th century by the Pontac family, and the estate has been owned by the Dillon family since Clarence Dillon acquired it in 1935. Haut-Brion has a distinguished historical reputation, with documented associations including King Charles II, Thomas Jefferson and diarist Samuel Pepys.
Specifications
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Vintage: 1997
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Producer: Château Haut-Brion
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Grape Varieties: 44% Merlot, 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc
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Region: Pessac-Léognan, Graves, Bordeaux, France
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Classification: Premier Grand Cru Classé, 1855 Classification
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Wine Style: Red Wine
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Sweetness: Dry
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Maturation: 18–20 months in French oak barrels
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Winemaker: Jean-Bernard Delmas
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Ownership: Domaines Clarence Dillon
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Drinking Window: 2000–2016
