As to the second wine of Château Haut Bailly, it too is fabulous stuff in 2016. A blend of 47% each of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance Cabernet Franc, the 2016 La Parde Haut Bailly offers notable purity as well as medium to full-bodied notes of blackcurrants, dried herbs, flowers, and spice. It's a layered, seamless wine from this estate that has no hard edges, beautiful balance, and a great finish. It's already delivering loads of pleasure but will keep for 15+ years.

92-94. Barrel Sample. This second wine of Haut-Bailly is about 30% of the harvest. It is packed with blackberry and black plum fruits. The richness is contrasted by the firm structure at the back of the wine. Dark tannins and ripe acidity support the fruitiness.

The 2016 La Parde de Haut-Bailly, matured in 30% new oak, has a strict, pencil-lead-infused bouquet that demands a little coaxing from the glass. I appreciate the delineation of this second wine, which is quite focused, with a light marine aroma. The medium-bodied palate exerts gentle grip. Finely structured with just a touch of cracked black pepper, this builds in the mouth to quite a linear, grippy finish that suggests that it will last longer than many might afford it. Excellent.

Polished and open in feel, with a lovely beam of pure plum and raspberry puree flavors inlaid with light tobacco and toasty vanilla notes. Subtle mesquite detail shows on the finish. Ready to go too. Drink now through 2028.