The tradition of producing second wines at Château Haut-Brion dates back to the 19th century when the estate’s owner, Count Dillon, decided to create a separate wine from the younger vines and parcels that did not meet the strict criteria for the grand vin. This decision was a stroke of genius as it allowed the estate to maintain its high standards while also capitalizing on the potential of these lesser-quality grapes.
Today, Château Haut-Brion produces two second wines: Le Clarence de Haut-Brion and La Chapelle de la Mission Haut-Brion. Le Clarence de Haut-Brion was previously known as Bahans-Haut-Brion until 2007 when it underwent a name change to further align it with the image and reputation of Château Haut-Brion. This second wine is made from grapes sourced from younger vines and parcels that fall just short of the strict criteria set for the grand vin.
Le Clarence de Haut-Brion benefits from the same meticulous winemaking and aging process as Château Haut-Brion, ensuring that the wine exhibits the finesse, complexity, and elegance that the estate is renowned for. While it may lack the depth and intensity of the grand vin, Le Clarence de Haut-Brion still offers a unique expression of the terroir and showcases the remarkable craftsmanship of the winemaking team.
La Chapelle de la Mission Haut-Brion, on the other hand, is the second wine of Château Haut-Brion’s sister estate, La Mission Haut-Brion. La Mission Haut-Brion is located adjacent to Château Haut-Brion and is also esteemed for producing exceptional wines. La Chapelle de la Mission Haut-Brion is crafted from grapes sourced from the estate’s younger vines and parcels that may not meet the stringent standards of the grand vin.
Just like Le Clarence de Haut-Brion, La Chapelle de la Mission Haut-Brion undergoes the same rigorous winemaking and aging process as the estate’s top wine. The result is a second wine that captivates the senses with its harmonious blend of fruit, structure, and finesse.
One might wonder why these esteemed châteaux bother producing second wines when their grand vins are already highly sought after and command premium prices. The answer lies in both the commitment to quality and the desire to offer wine lovers a taste of the estate’s excellence at a relatively more accessible price.
Second wines from renowned châteaux like Château Haut-Brion are often considered excellent value for money, providing an opportunity to experience the essence of the estate without breaking the bank. They are wines that can be enjoyed in their youth while waiting for the grand vin to mature, or simply as an introduction to the style and character of the estate.
In conclusion, Château Haut-Brion offers two second wines, Le Clarence de Haut-Brion and La Chapelle de la Mission Haut-Brion, which showcase the exceptional craftsmanship and terroir of the estate at a more accessible price point. These wines are a testament to the commitment to quality and the desire to share the beauty of the Château Haut-Brion experience with a wider audience.