Le Clarence de Haut Brion second wine Ch. Haut-Brion AC Pessac-Léognan

Le Clarence de Haut-Brion is the second wine of the legendary Château Haut-Brion — one of the oldest and most renowned wineries in the Bordeaux region, owned by the Dillon family since 1935. Pessac-Léognan, located directly on the southern city limits of Bordeaux, provides the foundation: gravel and sand soils over clay, which stand for the typical combination of structure and elegance of the Graves.

The cuvée consists of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and a small portion of Petit Verdot. In the nose, cassis and dark plum appear, underpinned by graphite and a hint of tobacco — the characteristic profile of the Graves. On the palate, the wine feels concentrated but not heavy: the tannins are present, silky, and well-integrated, the acidity keeps the arc taut. The finish is long, with a mineral-earthy aftertaste.

Best served at 16–18 °C. Classic accompaniment: rack of lamb with herb crust, entrecôte with Périgueux sauce, or mature Cantal. For those who prefer to eat without meat: mushroom risotto with truffle oil fits just as well with the depth of this wine.