Le Clarence de Haut-Brion is far more than just a second wine—it is an elegant and refined expression of Château Haut-Brion, crafted with the same meticulous attention to detail and sourced from the same legendary terroir. Named in honor of Clarence Dillon, the American financier who acquired Château Haut-Brion in 1935, this wine carries the heritage and prestige of Bordeaux’s oldest First Growth while offering a more accessible, earlier-drinking alternative to the Grand Vin.
Like its older sibling, Le Clarence de Haut-Brion is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, though it typically has a higher proportion of Merlot, making it softer and more inviting in its youth. The grapes are drawn from the estate’s gravelly soils, which lend the wine its characteristic finesse and complexity. Though crafted for earlier enjoyment, it retains the structure, depth, and smoky elegance that define Haut-Brion’s wines.
On the nose, Le Clarence de Haut-Brion is rich, aromatic, and immediately inviting. Layers of blackberries, plums, and cassis are intertwined with classic Pessac-Léognan notes of cigar smoke, graphite, and crushed earth. There is an appealing warmth to the bouquet, with hints of cedar, dark chocolate, and a touch of spice from the oak aging, reminiscent of its Grand Vin counterpart.
The palate is smooth, velvety, and exceptionally well-balanced. While the tannins are softer than those of Château Haut-Brion, they are still finely structured, giving the wine impressive depth. The fruit remains at the forefront, with flavors of ripe black fruit, tobacco, and espresso, complemented by a subtle minerality that adds freshness. The finish is long and polished, with lingering notes of dark berries, smoke, and spice.
Unlike Haut-Brion, which requires decades to reach its peak, Le Clarence de Haut-Brion is designed to be enjoyed within 10 to 20 years, making it an attractive option for those who want a taste of First Growth quality without the extended wait. However, it is still a serious and age-worthy wine, reflecting the power and sophistication of Pessac-Léognan’s greatest estate.
Le Clarence is not just a second wine—it is a wine of true distinction, offering a glimpse into Château Haut-Brion’s legendary terroir with a more immediate and approachable charm. It is an ideal choice for those who appreciate the refinement of Haut-Brion but seek a more accessible and versatile expression of its greatness.
