Winery Background and History Château Haut-Brisson, located in the Saint-Émilion appellation of Bordeaux, France, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. In 1997, Peter Kwok acquired the estate, initiating significant investments to elevate the quality of its wines. Under his guidance, the château embraced organic farming practices, achieving certification in 2010. The estate’s commitment to excellence and respect for its terroir has solidified its reputation as a producer of distinguished Saint-Émilion Grand Cru wines. Producer and Winemaker Since Peter Kwok’s acquisition, Château Haut-Brisson has been under the management of Vignobles K, with Michel Rolland serving as a consulting oenologist. The winemaking team focuses on producing wines that express the unique characteristics of their terroir, combining traditional methods with modern techniques to achieve high quality. Vineyards and Microclimate The estate’s 17.94 hectares of vineyards are planted with 65% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Situated on gravel and sand soils, the vines average 30 years of age. The proximity to the Dordogne River provides a temperate microclimate, protecting the vines from extreme temperatures and promoting even ripening. The combination of soil composition and favorable climate contributes to the complexity and balance of the wines. Grape Varietals The 2015 Château Haut-Brisson is composed of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. Vinification & Aging Methods The 2015 vintage marked a significant change, as the estate ceased producing its reserve wine, incorporating the best grapes into the main cuvée. Fermentation occurred in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, allowing precise control over the process. Malolactic fermentation took place in barrels, with the wine aged for approximately 16 to 18 months in French oak barrels, 35% of which were new. This approach enhanced the wine’s complexity and allowed for better integration of tannins. ABV (Alcohol by Volume) The 2015 Château Haut-Brisson has an alcohol content of 13%. Tasting Notes This vintage exhibits a deep red color with violet glints. The nose is intense, offering aromas of black fruit, graphite, balsamic, and cinnamon. On the palate, it is lush and silky, with flavors of ripe black and blueberry fruit, dried violets, and flinty mineral notes. The wine is medium to full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a lingering finish. Food & Wine Pairing The 2015 Château Haut-Brisson pairs well with roasted meats, such as beef or lamb, game dishes, and mature cheeses. Its structure and depth complement rich flavors, making it a versatile companion for hearty meals. Service Methods and Temperatures Serve at a temperature between 16°C and 18°C (60°F to 64°F). Decanting for about an hour before serving is recommended to allow the wine to open up and fully express its aromatic profile. Storage and Aging Potential Stored under optimal conditions, the 2015 Château Haut-Brisson has the potential to develop further complexity over the next decade, with a peak drinking window extending through 2025-2030. Scores • James Suckling: 95 points • Wine Enthusiast: 91–93 points • Jeb Dunnuck: 92 points • Vinous: 92 points • Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 91 points
