The 2019 Haut-Bailly II is a very serious second wine. Big, potent tannis give the 2019 much of its somber, brooding personality. Black cherry, graphite, licorice, cloves and new leather infuse the 2019 with tremendous complexity. Readers should be prepared to cellar the 2019 for at least a few years. If this tasting is any indication, it is a real powerhouse with quite a bit of cellaring potential.

The 2019 Haut-Bailly II, formerly La Parde de Haut-Bailly, was picked from 23 September to 10 October. This bursts from the glass with crushed strawberry, dark cherries, vanilla and light sous-bois aromas - utterly charming. The palate is medium-bodied with finely-chiseled tannins, a keen line of acidity, precise and vibrant with just a touch of piquancy on the finish. This is an absolutely delightful second label that comes highly recommended.

The 2019 Haut-Bailly II exhibits aromas of rich berry fruit, cassis, cigar wrapper and loamy soil. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and polished, with a ripe core of fruit and plenty of rich, powdery tannin, it's a Merlot-dominated blend that was composed at the moment of assemblage (as opposed to a selection of dedicated plots).

60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon. Barrel sample. Ripe and pure on the nose. Dark-fruit notes, the cassis more obvious as it opens. Medium bodied with a touch of sweetness on attack then crunchy fruit on the mid palate. Slight savoury edge then minerally and dry on the finish, the Graves imprint present. (JL)