2021, Château La Mission Haut-Brion Rouge, PESSAC-LÉOGNAN Grand Cru Classé de Graves

Bordeaux Blend: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot

Frequently the qualitative equal of sister-château Haut Brion and in some years even better. La Mission's production levels are now smaller than ever and, more than ever, it can be seen as an 'honorary' first growth. The vineyard is planted with 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot.

Plenty of classic La Mission finesse and balance, touches of cloves and velvety tannins, this is supremely balanced and elegant, with pumice stone minerality. It is a little taut on the finish in its tannic structure and no question majors more heavily on the cool blue fruit character than we have seen with this property in recent years. Seriously enjoyable, a total masterclass in cool climate fruit delivery. Easy to recommend. 97 Jane Anson

Unwinding in the glass with aromas of dark berries and plums mingled with loamy soil, sweet spices, cigar box and liquorice, the 2021 La Mission Haut-Brion is full-bodied, lively and seamless, with a deep, concentrated core of fruit framed by bright acids and supple, powdery tannins. This charming, sensual rendition of La Mission (2021) is a blend of 48% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Cabernet Franc. 94-96 William Kelley, Wine Advocate.

Lots of sea-salt, iodine and purple-fruit aromas and flavours to this. Turns to bark and forest floor. Powerful. Full-bodied and muscular. 94-95 James Suckling.

The 2021 La Mission Haut-Brion is blessed with an ethereal bouquet, subtle touches of wilted iris petal and truffle infuse the black fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grain tannins, perfectly judged acidity, quite compact on the mid-palate with linear and correct finish. You could argue that it is slightly "aloof", yet intuition tells me it has something up its sleeve for later on. Patience necessary. 93-95 Neal Martin.