2018 Chateau Haut Brion, Pessac Leognan, 750mL, case of 6 bottles, (99 points)

The 2018 Château Haut-Brion is a masterpiece of elegance and complexity, earning near-universal acclaim for its layered depth and refined structure. This wine, composed of 49.4% Merlot, 38.7% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 11.9% Cabernet Franc, opens slowly with a deep garnet-purple hue, revealing a complex bouquet of blackcurrants, crushed rocks, tobacco, and hints of truffle and spices. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, offering a seamless integration of black and red fruits, earthy minerals, and exotic spices, all framed by fine, polished tannins. The wine is praised for its balance, with a freshness and energy that suggest it will age gracefully for decades. Described as both powerful and elegant, the 2018 Haut-Brion is a wine that will require patience to fully appreciate, with critics agreeing it will reach its peak in the years to come and continue to impress for at least 40 years.