Château La Mission-Haut-Brion

Pessac-Léognan Cru Classé 2012

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  Vintage 2012
  97 points

As for the 2012 La Mission Haut Brion, this wine (41% of the total production) continues to perform as it has for nearly a century. At first-growth levels of quality, this is s stunning wine that is full-bodied and very concentrated with notes of graphite, subtle charcoal embers, crème de cassis, blackberry and underlying subtle earthiness. The wine is full and powerful, rich and concentrated. And sure enough, the alcohol level tips the scales at 15% from a blend 62% Merlot and 38% Cabernet Franc. This is a big, blockbuster La Mission Haut Brion that should age effortlessly for 30-40+ years. However, the tannins suggest that this wine should not be touched for another 5-6 years, as its one of the more backward of the 2012 Pessac-Léognans. Bravo!

• 

  Vintage 2012
  94 points

Deep colour. Fresh glossy dark berry licorice, roasted chestnut aromas. Well concentrated dark berry , plum, aniseed, liquorice flavours and fine chalky dry tannins. Finishes firm and tight. Beautifully made wine but still elemental and crisp. (Barrel)