Vinous - Score: 86-88 (May. 2008)

(51% merlot, 34% cabernet sauvignon and 15% cabernet franc; this is the new name for Haut-Brion's second wine, replacing Bahans Haut-Brion) Good red-ruby. Deeply pitched black fruits and a hint of tar on the nose, lifted by pepper, spices and herbs. Offers moderate ripeness and flesh, with the pepper and herbal qualities giving the mid-palate a faint greenness. I find this a bit austere but savory and juicy. Finishes with dusty, fairly light tannins. Jean-Philippe Delmas noted that "Clarence" is easier to pronounce than "Bahans" for most of the estate's clients outside France.