Haut Bailly is one of the oldest châteaux in Bordeaux. It is located in the Pessac-Léognan appellation, in the north of the Graves wine-growing region. Naturally, there have been several owners in around 500 years. The takeover in 1998 by Robert G. Willmers, a banker from Buffalo who died in 2017, was particularly influential for today's estate. He co-operated with the successful previous owners, the Sanders family, and transferred the management to Veronique Sanders, who consistently led the château into the top league.
The 30 hectares of vineyards on the Grand Crus Classé estate on the left bank of the Garonne are made up of 60 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 34 % Merlot, 3 % Petit Verdot and 3 % Cabernet Franc. Some parcels are 20 metres higher than others, which makes for clear differences in character. There are also 4 hectares with plants over 120 years old.
Manual labour in the vineyard, careful destemming and meticulous selection are as much a matter of course as parcel-specific vinification. This has been carried out in the new "cellar" for a few years now. The spectacular and highly functional building has a free-floating domed roof and blends harmoniously into the landscape.
30 conical, temperature-controlled concrete tanks are used for fermentation. "Our aim is to preserve the fruit and extract velvety tannins with the help of temperature regulation and gentle remontage. Unique character and individuality are preserved and analysed in order to masterfully blend them together and allow the sensuality of the Graves terroir to shine through." After fermentation and blending, the wine is matured in French oak barrels. It lasts 16 to 18 months.
photos: Château Haut-Bailly
