The second wine of Chateau Haut-Bages Liberal which is made from younger vines and some vines that sit outside the Pauillac boundary. The intention here is to produce a more accessible expression of the Chateau style which is intended for earlier drinking.

2016 was an excellent vintage, especially for the Cabernet-dominant wines such as this and this wine is now drinking beautifully. It's 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot and was made at a time when the property was in conversion to organic viticulture. After a fermentation in stainless steel the wine was aged in oak for 12 months. What results is elegant and balanced with gentle cassis fruit, light oak influence and a beautiful hint of spice - in many respects classic Bordeaux that's perfect for current drinking. It's excellent value as well when you consider that you'd be paying more than double its price for the Grand Vin.

As you might expect from a wine of this age there is small sediment in this. Either decant, or be careful pouring the final half glass.