
Château Haut-Bages Libéral – Red blend – 2022
Pauillac AOC – Bordeaux, France 🇫🇷
Overview
Left Bank classicism meets modern precision. A Cabernet-dominant blend at 87% and 13% Merlot that showcases Pauillac’s hallmark structure wrapped in surprising elegance. Certified organic and biodynamic, made by Claire Villars-Lurton, one of the leading women in Bordeaux.
Aromas & Flavors
Blackcurrant, graphite, cedar, plum skin, and violets with subtle tobacco leaf, pencil shavings, and cocoa. Young, fresh, and layered.
Mouthfeel
Medium-plus to full-bodied with refined tannins, balanced acidity, and a polished, seamless texture. Harmonious and structured with a delicious, lingering finish.
Food Pairings
Roast lamb, ribeye, duck breast, mushroom ragù, or aged Comté.
Verdict
A beautifully balanced, terroir-driven Pauillac that delivers finesse without sacrificing power. Delicious now, but built to evolve gracefully.
Did You Know?
Château Haut-Bages Libéral is a Fifth Growth from the 1855 Classification, situated next on to Château Latour. The “Libéral” family were 18th-century négociants who selected some of Pauillac’s best parcels, many still form the estate today. — 2 months ago
Holding up very nicely since last time in 2021. Last one I think — 12 days ago
Bm+. Tm. Am. Fm. 7years. — 2 months ago
2020. Grand cru. Loved for $30. Buy more! — 3 months ago
Meaty and spiced start with rich combination of red and black cherry. Slightly firm in the middle, but otherwise very well balanced with a dense, intense finish. I’ve been on a good roll lately of 2014s that have retained their precocious fruit yumminess, and this is another example. — 4 months ago
New Years Eve dinner - which red wine to drink?! 🤔
Finally settled on an old favorite - Paul Jaboulet Hermitage.
Did not disappoint - smooth, concentrated fruits, with a hint of earthy, charcoal, tobacco.
Nice way to end our wine drinking for 2025, here’s to more great wines in 2026! 🥂 — a month ago

Mocha, tobacco and black cherry. Gentle tannins supporting a strong thick body, albeit a pinch of dry on the palate. — 5 months ago
Dave
Apparently I've had this one other time, but I don't remember the poop smell. Maybe it's not the wine! 😳
Opened this last night and the merde was strong. Tonight, the nose is very pleasant on this cheapo Bordeaux. Tastes like dark berries, herbs, a little mint and sage. It's good considering the price!
Listening to Squirrel Nut Zippers — 12 days ago