Tasted with 1997 Cheval Blanc, Château Margaux, and Mouton-Rothschild, the Haut-Brion clearly stood out as the most balanced and complex of this fine lot. Minerality was remarkable. Wet gravel and scorched earth formed the base for red currant, sweet wood, and smoked meat flavors. Tobacco and mint added counterpoints to the mild fruit flavors, clearly giving way to the secondary flavors of a mature Bordeaux. This is ready now and in this down ‘97 vintage unlikely to improve with additional age. If you are in New York, take it to Keen’s, order the Mutton Chop, and pay the corkage fee. Don’t forget to offer a taste to your waiter (and the envious wine steward).
WHO: Château Haut-Brion
WHAT: Cabernet sauvignon blend
WHERE: Graves AOC, France,
WHEN: 1997
HOW MUCH: $230
