2005 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac Léognan

(Pessac & Graves Tasting Panel - Highly Recommended 4/5 Stars- Decanter Dec 08)
After the sensational 2004 Haut Bailly we were anticipating a rival, or an equal. We were wrong. The 2005 has everything that the 2004 has but cranked up by about 40%. Its intense multilayered flavours are exceptional. The wine is totally decadent and yet so precise. Packed full of typical Graves minerality, incredibly concentrated raspberry and cream flavours, sit alongside great acidity and massive tannins. Veronique Sanders said, 'This is the finest wine that we have ever made.' We say 'Buy as much of this as you can afford.'
(Simon Staples, BBR Fine Wine Director)

Haut-Bailly's American proprietor, Robert Wilmers, backed up by the brilliant Veronique Sanders, continues to go from strength to strength. A fabulous example of this estate, the 2005 is an ethereal, delicate, finesse-styled offering with intensity as well as richness. It has all the concentration one could want, but it comes across as gorgeously elegant and sublime because of its combination of delicacy, power, and depth. Beautiful raspberry, black cherry, currant, graphite, and scorched earth notes are subtle, but provocative. In the mouth, there is good acidity, medium body, ripe tannin, and terrific length. This is a beauty of haute couture from Pessac-Leognan. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2035.
(Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - 30-Apr-2008)
Robert Parker

This is warmer and richer than the 2004 with much of the same stony, mineral and sweet tobacco character. Layered and complex. Full-bodied, with loads of fruit yet it's reserved and tight with super-ripe tannins but a subtle and long finish. Best after 2014. 95 points, non-blind.
(James Suckling - Uncorked - America the Beautiful in Bordeaux - Winespectator.com- June 09)