Haut Brion 1974 (ssl)

An intense, garnet color and loads of tobacco in the nose before the bouquet opens its peacock tail of aromas with licorice, porcini mushroom and bark in abundance. The mouthfeel has a frightening tension and is very fresh, upright and austere. A formidable wine.

Maybe this was not a good vintage, but this was still a very good wine. Soft, tannins mostly gone. Still moderately colored. Nose was fine and almost floral, with a bit of cedar and earth. Drank like a classic claret.

Still drinking ok with notes of dried red fruits, spices, toast and charr wood. Medium acidity and medium tannin. Tannin is fine.