Collection Card

"Like its more famous neighbor, Haut-Brion, the 2001 La Mission Haut-Brion has closed down considerably since bottling. A blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc, it possesses an inky/purple color (deeper than Haut-Brion's) in addition to a tight but promising bouquet of scorched earth, wood, tar, black currants, and a hint of hickory wood. Medium-bodied, firm, muscular, and virile, it is a candidate for long term cellaring. "

"Very complex, with blackberries, flowers and minerals. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a fresh, sweet fruit aftertaste. Refined La Mission. Beautiful. "

Tasted blind at Bordeaux Index?s 10-Year On horizontal. This has another lovely bouquet, quite floral and lifted with outstanding delineation with small dark cherries, orange blossom, wild strawberry and a touch of cooked meat. Very complex and absorbing. The palate is medium-bodied with a slightly ferrous entry, superb balance with just a faint hint of pepper. Lovely delineation and symmetry here with great focus and poise. It just builds and builds towards the menthol-tinged finish. Outstanding. Tasted March 2011.