2020 Ch Haut-Bages Libéral, Pauillac

Unique character to this with mushroom, wet-earth, spice, and black-tea character on the nose and palate. It’s full and layered with chewy tannins that are plush and pure. Rose-bush and bark undertones to the fruit. Old merlot vines showing through! 72% cabernet sauvignon and 28% merlot. From biodynamically grown grapes. Demeter certification.

95-96 points James Suckling jamessuckling.com

A ton of blackcurrant and blackberry fruit, chewy and concentrated, cassis fruit pastilles give a sweet but well textured feel, and a shot of acidity picks everything up on the finish. A yield of 44hl/had. They have limestone and clay soils here, atypical for Pauillac but they help in such a dry summer. Ageing takes place in 40% new oak, 40% one year oak and 20% in amphoras (jarre de limoges + concrete eggs). 3.59pH, because of the limestone. Drinking Window 2025 - 2038

91 points Jane Anson decanter.com

The 2020 Haut-Bages Libéral is a powerhouse in its first impression. Veins of bright mineral notes give the 2020 its textural feel and persistence. Bright red fruit, cedar, dried flowers, mint, spice and sweet tobacco. Time in the glass brings out very pretty floral notes that add finesse and considerable aromatic presence.

93-95 points Antonio Galloni vinous.com