A blend dominated by 68% Merlot, the 2021 Haut-Bailly II exhibits aromas of plums, dark berries and raw cocoa, followed by a medium to full-bodied, lively and seamless palate. Underpinned by powdery tannins, it`s an elegant, incipiently complex wine that contains all but one vat of the estate`s best Merlot this year. 89-91 points

The 2021 Haut-Bailly II has evolved nicely on the nose since I tasted it at en primeur, cohering in the glass with blackberry, briar and subtle Earl Grey scents. Maybe it just needs a little more delineation? The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins. I appreciate the freshness and particularly the accentuated salinity of this wine, with a crisp, seaweed-tinged finish. Fine. 90 points

The 2021 Haut-Bailly II is soft, silky and super-expressive. Rose petal, spice, mint and red cherry fruit all grace this mid-weight second wine from Haut-Bailly. The aromatics are especially forward. The mid-weight structure of the vintage is very much on display. The 2021 is a real charmer. 91-93 points

Easily one of the most successful 2nd wines in the vintage, with an effortless feel that no doubt took a huge amount of effort to craft. Finessed loganberry and raspberry fruits, saffron and sage spices, touches of white truffle with slate tannins. Harvest September 27 to October 11. First year in the new cellars. 19hl/h yield. 91 points