The name of Château Haut‐Bages Libéral has two roots. The Liberal family was the former owner of the property from the beginning of the 18th century. Brokers from father to son, they sold most of the harvest at the time in the Netherlands and Belgium. Their name added to the topographical designation, had long earned them to be invited to the tables of political parties of the same name around the world. Over time, these fine connoisseurs
brought together the best terroirs of Pauillac.
This is how this fifth Classified Growth in 1855 now has half of its vineyard contiguous to Château Latour and the other half behind Château Pichon Baron, located on the heights of the place called "Bages", a large plateau in the south of Pauillac. This superb vineyard would regain its youth when in 1960, the Cruse family, then owner of Château Pontet‐Canet, also a fifth Classified Growth in Pauillac, acquired the property. They launched a vast
program to replant the vines. However, it was not until the arrival of the Villars family in 1983 that Château Haut‐Bages Libéral regained its former glory.
Today, Claire Villars Lurton is the owner of the estate and she undertook a complete overhaul of the winemaking facilities. She has directed her vineyard management towards a sustainable viticulture.
Surface of the vineyard 30 hectares.
Soil Gravels of clay and limestone around the property and deep gravels on the hamlet of Bages.
Plantation 75 % cabernet sauvignon, 25 % merlot.
Average age of the vineyard 35 years old.
Vine growing sustainable.
Harvest hand picking.
Vinification traditional in stainless and concrete vats, plots selection.
Fermentation on skins 18 to 21 days.
Blending 72 % cabernet sauvignon, 28 % merlot.
Ageing in French oak barrels during 16 months. 40% of new oak.
"Deep garnet in color, the 2010 Haut Bages Liberal is a bit subdued to begin, unfurling to offer glimpses at mature stewed plums and warm figs scents with touches of mossy tree bark, unsmoked cigars and truffles. Medium-bodied, the palate delivers lovely freshness and well-managed, approachable tannins, finishing on a mineral note. Drink from 2020-2037"
Robert Parker Wine Advocate 91pts