2017 - La Mission Haut-Brion, Pessac-Leognan

Composed of 56% Merlot, 39.6% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 4.4% Cabernet Franc, the 2017 La Mission Haut-Brion is deep garnet in color. The nose begins with faint hints of cinnamon stick and clove oil before uncoiling to reveal a fragrant core of baked plums, kirsch, and cassis, plus a touch of Oolong tea. The medium to full-bodied palate is dense and profound, featuring very plush, rounded tannins and fantastic tension, finishing with a fragrant lift. "We did a lot of selection between the 2nd label and the grand vin this year," said Jean-Philippe Delmas.

A positively stunning wine, the 2017 La Mission Haut-Brion is all class. Sweet floral notes give the 2017 striking freshness, nuance and energy. Rose petal, mint, blood orange, red cherry, pomegranate and mocha are all laced together. In 2017, La Mission plays very much in the red fruit and floral end of the spectrum. Effortless, gracious and wonderfully nuanced, the 2017 simply has it all. What a wine!

Tasted blind. Deep ruby colour. Cedar, cassis and star anise. Dark, rich and brooding. Mouth-filling, rich fruit and deeply savoury spice. Powerful, smoky and rich but with all the density of fruit needed. Aristocratic, easy intensity and harmony. Good bones and great potential. (TP)