A very dry spring and a warm summer favoured the formation of small bunches of fine grapes and interrupted vine growth at the right time. Overcast skies and cool temperatures in August helped ripen the grapes and maintain a satisfactory level of acidity and good aromatic potential. Two weeks of beautiful weather at the beginning of September were extremely beneficial and tests in the vineyard indicated alcoholic and polyphenolic levels identical to those of 2004 and 2005.

Thanks to the careful work on each vine throughout the year, all the picked fruit was healthy, aromatic and perfectly ripe. Traditional cultivation methods such as ploughing between each row of vines are used every year at Haut-Bailly. This encourages deep rooting and is a crucial factor in preventing skin splitting and subsequent rotting of the grapes should rain arrive late in the season. These techniques proved particularly critical in 2006.

The 2006 vintage has very deep colour, an intense fruity character and, to our delight, an impressive tannic structure. The Merlot is smooth and the Cabernet Sauvignon is powerful. This vintage will undoubtedly be well-balanced, silky, and elegant. In short: a great wine and a credit to its terroir.

Harvest: September 13^th – October 5^th   
Château Haut-Bailly blend: 65% Cabernet Sauvignon – 35% Merlot
La Parde Haut-Bailly blend: 35% Cabernet Sauvignon – 49% Merlot – 6% Cabernet Franc