2005 Ch. Haut-Bages Libéral, Pauillac

Wine Spectator's James Suckling raised eyebrows when he described this wine as `breathtaking' and said it was only a whisker away from receiving his top mark of 95-100. We agree.This is quintessential Pauillac, served blind we are sure this would outshine many top Pauillac colleagues. Neighbouring First Growth Ch. Latour, the estate's undeniably fine terroir has been coaxed out of it by the dynamic, irrepressible, petite owner Claire Villars and her team. This magnificent effort with its sleek cassis fruit, velvety tannins and gorgeous grip is one of the bargains of the vintage. Drink 2015-2030.