France
The vast and diverse wine regions of France, each with its own unique terroirs, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques, are a treasure trove.
In Bordeaux, the birthplace of some of the world's most iconic wines, esteemed vineyards such as Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château Latour, and Château Haut-Brion produce exceptional red wines, showcasing the art of blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. The region is also renowned for its exquisite white wines, with vineyards like Château d'Yquem and Domaine de Chevalier producing legendary sweet wines.
Moving to Burgundy, the vineyards of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Domaine Leroy, and Domaine Armand Rousseau capture the essence of the region's revered terroir, crafting exquisite red wines from the Pinot Noir grape. Meanwhile, Domaine Leflaive and Domaine Coche-Dury are celebrated for their world-class white wines, predominantly made from Chardonnay.
The Champagne region, known for its sparkling wines, boasts illustrious houses such as Krug, Dom Pérignon, and Moët & Chandon, as well as grower-producers like Pierre Péters and Jacques Selosse. These vineyards create exceptional sparkling wines using the traditional method, offering a symphony of delicate bubbles, elegant flavors, and vibrant acidity.
In the Rhône Valley, iconic vineyards like Chapoutier, E. Guigal, and Château de Beaucastel produce remarkable red wines in the northern appellations of Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, and Cornas, showcasing the elegance and power of Syrah. Further south, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is celebrated for its rich and full-bodied red blends, with Château Rayas and Clos des Papes leading the way.
In Alsace, vineyards such as Domaine Zind-Humbrecht and omaine Trimbach craft exquisite white wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris, expressing the region's unique terroir and varietal character.
These are just a few highlights among the diverse array of wines that France offers. From the Loire Valley's crisp whites and elegant reds to the Languedoc-Roussillon's bold and robust wines, each region presents its own vinous treasures.
France
![Bottle of Cristal, Lafite, DRC, Rayas and Chave](https://media.cruworldwine.com/media/resized/500_300/catalog/category/France.png)
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Vinous - Neal Martin (99)
The 2016 La Mission Haut-Brion was stunning from barrel, and now in bottle. It has a sublime bouquet of blackberries, briar and hints of dark chocolate and rose petals that gain intensity with aeration while maintaining ethereal delineation. It never steps on the accelerator too hard. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin. There is still a veneer of new oak that will need to be assimilated over the coming years. This is a deep La Mission that caresses the mouth. Touches of graphite lingering on a finish that fans out gloriously. Is the 2016 up there with the 1955 or 1989? Nearly.Inc. VAT£3,834.46 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (99)
The 2016 La Mission Haut-Brion was stunning from barrel, and now in bottle. It has a sublime bouquet of blackberries, briar and hints of dark chocolate and rose petals that gain intensity with aeration while maintaining ethereal delineation. It never steps on the accelerator too hard. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin. There is still a veneer of new oak that will need to be assimilated over the coming years. This is a deep La Mission that caresses the mouth. Touches of graphite lingering on a finish that fans out gloriously. Is the 2016 up there with the 1955 or 1989? Nearly.Inc. VAT£1,759.24 -
James Suckling (97)
A tight, solid red with crushed-berry, sandalwood, stone and cement flavors. It’s full-bodied, yet very tight and compact with excellent depth and intensity. Closed and austere, but there’s both energy and levity to it at the same time. Try after 2025.Inc. VAT£1,306.84 -
The Wine Independent (100)
La Mission Haut-Brion 2018 has a deep garnet-purple color. It slowly unfurls to offer notes of blackcurrant cordial, plum preserves, and Morello cherries, leading to hints of menthol, cedar, pencil lead, and roses, plus a touch of unsmoked cigars. Full-bodied, rich and opulent on the palate, it is jam-packed with juicy black fruits and loads of fragrant accents, supported by ripe, grainy tannins, finishing long and earthy.Inc. VAT£794.81 -
The Wine Independent (100)
La Mission Haut-Brion 2018 has a deep garnet-purple color. It slowly unfurls to offer notes of blackcurrant cordial, plum preserves, and Morello cherries, leading to hints of menthol, cedar, pencil lead, and roses, plus a touch of unsmoked cigars. Full-bodied, rich and opulent on the palate, it is jam-packed with juicy black fruits and loads of fragrant accents, supported by ripe, grainy tannins, finishing long and earthy.Inc. VAT£1,532.44 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
The 2019 Château La Mission Haut-Brion is Merlot-dominated, checking in as 53% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's a more opulent wine compared to Haut-Brion, and the Merlot is front and center here, with ripe, sexy black cherry and redcurrant fruits as well as licorice, scorched earth, cedar pencil, and graphite aromas and flavors. Rich, exuberant, and straight up sexy on the palate, it's full-bodied, has a deep, layered mid-palate, building tannins, and a heavenly finish. Just a prodigious, powerful, off-the-charts expression of this terroir, it actually reminds me slightly of the 2005 (or 1998?) with its mix of sexiness and opulence. This is one of the few 2019s that will make your eyes roll back in your head. It will need 10-15 years of cellaring, but it’s a sensational wine on every level and will have 40+ years of prime drinking.Inc. VAT£1,052.81 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
The 2019 Château La Mission Haut-Brion is Merlot-dominated, checking in as 53% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's a more opulent wine compared to Haut-Brion, and the Merlot is front and center here, with ripe, sexy black cherry and redcurrant fruits as well as licorice, scorched earth, cedar pencil, and graphite aromas and flavors. Rich, exuberant, and straight up sexy on the palate, it's full-bodied, has a deep, layered mid-palate, building tannins, and a heavenly finish. Just a prodigious, powerful, off-the-charts expression of this terroir, it actually reminds me slightly of the 2005 (or 1998?) with its mix of sexiness and opulence. This is one of the few 2019s that will make your eyes roll back in your head. It will need 10-15 years of cellaring, but it’s a sensational wine on every level and will have 40+ years of prime drinking.Inc. VAT£1,666.24 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
The 2019 Château La Mission Haut-Brion is Merlot-dominated, checking in as 53% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's a more opulent wine compared to Haut-Brion, and the Merlot is front and center here, with ripe, sexy black cherry and redcurrant fruits as well as licorice, scorched earth, cedar pencil, and graphite aromas and flavors. Rich, exuberant, and straight up sexy on the palate, it's full-bodied, has a deep, layered mid-palate, building tannins, and a heavenly finish. Just a prodigious, powerful, off-the-charts expression of this terroir, it actually reminds me slightly of the 2005 (or 1998?) with its mix of sexiness and opulence. This is one of the few 2019s that will make your eyes roll back in your head. It will need 10-15 years of cellaring, but it’s a sensational wine on every level and will have 40+ years of prime drinking.Inc. VAT£910.82 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
The 2019 Château La Mission Haut-Brion is Merlot-dominated, checking in as 53% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's a more opulent wine compared to Haut-Brion, and the Merlot is front and center here, with ripe, sexy black cherry and redcurrant fruits as well as licorice, scorched earth, cedar pencil, and graphite aromas and flavors. Rich, exuberant, and straight up sexy on the palate, it's full-bodied, has a deep, layered mid-palate, building tannins, and a heavenly finish. Just a prodigious, powerful, off-the-charts expression of this terroir, it actually reminds me slightly of the 2005 (or 1998?) with its mix of sexiness and opulence. This is one of the few 2019s that will make your eyes roll back in your head. It will need 10-15 years of cellaring, but it’s a sensational wine on every level and will have 40+ years of prime drinking.Inc. VAT£1,453.24 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2020 La Mission Haut-Brion is a brilliant effort that exhibits a level of balance and integration that are impressive in such a powerful young Bordeaux. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of dark berries and plums mingled with burning embers, pencil shavings, violets and smoked black tea, it's full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with a layered, elegantly muscular profile, its brooding core of fruit framed by a generous endowment of powdery tannin that tempers the ripeness of the vintage. Checking in at 14.7% alcohol, it's nonetheless more classically styled than the more flamboyant 2019 vintage or even the slowly maturing 2010 which I re-tasted alongside for context.Inc. VAT£1,002.02 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2020 La Mission Haut-Brion is a brilliant effort that exhibits a level of balance and integration that are impressive in such a powerful young Bordeaux. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of dark berries and plums mingled with burning embers, pencil shavings, violets and smoked black tea, it's full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with a layered, elegantly muscular profile, its brooding core of fruit framed by a generous endowment of powdery tannin that tempers the ripeness of the vintage. Checking in at 14.7% alcohol, it's nonetheless more classically styled than the more flamboyant 2019 vintage or even the slowly maturing 2010 which I re-tasted alongside for context.Inc. VAT£4,144.87 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2020 La Mission Haut-Brion is a brilliant effort that exhibits a level of balance and integration that are impressive in such a powerful young Bordeaux. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of dark berries and plums mingled with burning embers, pencil shavings, violets and smoked black tea, it's full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with a layered, elegantly muscular profile, its brooding core of fruit framed by a generous endowment of powdery tannin that tempers the ripeness of the vintage. Checking in at 14.7% alcohol, it's nonetheless more classically styled than the more flamboyant 2019 vintage or even the slowly maturing 2010 which I re-tasted alongside for context.Inc. VAT£1,730.44 -
Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (97)
Plenty of classic La Mission finesse and balance, touches of cloves and velvety tannins, this is surpremely balanced and elegant, with pummice 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. 73% new oak, harvest september 20 to October 8. No frost impact here and very little mildew, meaning the overall yield was up to 47hl/h, extremely generous for the vintage.Inc. VAT£1,635.89 -
Jeb Dunnuck (96-100)
One of the finest wines in the vintage, the 2023 Château La Mission Haut-Brion is based on 52.7% Merlot, 29.6% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's one hell of a gorgeous wine offering a massive nose of black raspberries, graphite, liquid flowers, scorched earth, and chocolate-like aromas and flavors. It delivers remarkable purity, full-bodied richness, no hard edges, and fine-grained, sweet tannins. The overall balance paired with opulence here is something to behold, and it’s incredible to find this level of quality in the vintage.Inc. VAT£1,361.09 -
Jeb Dunnuck (96-100)
One of the finest wines in the vintage, the 2023 Château La Mission Haut-Brion is based on 52.7% Merlot, 29.6% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's one hell of a gorgeous wine offering a massive nose of black raspberries, graphite, liquid flowers, scorched earth, and chocolate-like aromas and flavors. It delivers remarkable purity, full-bodied richness, no hard edges, and fine-grained, sweet tannins. The overall balance paired with opulence here is something to behold, and it’s incredible to find this level of quality in the vintage.Inc. VAT£677.54 -
Jeb Dunnuck (96-100)
One of the finest wines in the vintage, the 2023 Château La Mission Haut-Brion is based on 52.7% Merlot, 29.6% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's one hell of a gorgeous wine offering a massive nose of black raspberries, graphite, liquid flowers, scorched earth, and chocolate-like aromas and flavors. It delivers remarkable purity, full-bodied richness, no hard edges, and fine-grained, sweet tannins. The overall balance paired with opulence here is something to behold, and it’s incredible to find this level of quality in the vintage.Inc. VAT£1,355.09 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (86)
The 1987 Laville Haut-Brion is a vexing wine at first. There is a “funk” on the nose, demonstrating a lot of reduction that I thought would never be rectified, even with vigorous aeration. However that potent struck match scent eventually does dissipate to reveal Laville’s trademark scents of honeysuckle and beeswax, a touch of pressed white flowers and fennel. The palate is well balanced, although, again, it takes time to reveal delineation and composure. There is pleasant weight and length, although it does not quite fire up in the glass like other vintages. Perhaps this is one where the sulphur management could have been better? Not bad, but not the best Laville Haut-Brion of the decade. Tasted at a white Bordeaux-themed private dinner in London.Inc. VAT£529.45 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (89)
Complex, expressive aromas of lemon, honey, ginger, quinine, butterscotch and fresh herbs, plus a waxy suggestion of semillon. Supple and ripe, with moderate depth of flavor and good citric cut. Seems a bit stunted by the August '98 bottling. Finishes with good but not outstanding length.Inc. VAT£529.45 -
Inc. VAT£840.80
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Vinous - Ian D'Agata (94-97)
(73% semillon and 27% sauvignon blanc): Pale straw-green. Lovely semillon aromas of white peach and beeswax complicated by lavender, jasmine and minerals. Multilayered and complex on the palate, showing more minerality to go with the very intense, pure flavors of peach, lemon and green fig. The sauvignon blanc really stands out on the long, deep finish. This very bright, focused wine is one of the stars of the vintage, red wines included.Inc. VAT£2,214.02 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)
The 2012 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc is a real stunner. All the elements fall into place in an utterly spellbinding white wine endowed with class and pedigree to burn. A host of orchard fruit, lemon oil, mint and sweet floral notes flesh out, but it is the wine's overall feel and phenomenal, precise finish that elevate it into to the stratosphere. The 2012 can be enjoyed now, but it will also age for decades.Inc. VAT£3,146.44 -
Vinous - Ian D'Agata (93-96)
(76% semillon and 24% sauvignon blanc; 46 h/h yield): Bright, pale yellow-gold. Subtly complex aromas of white stone fruits, lime, nut oil, nutmeg, menthol and bitter grapefruit. A huge, deep wine with laser-like acidity lifting the highly concentrated tropical fruit, white peach, spice and herb flavors. As youthfully chewy, thick and palate-staining as this is, it's also wonderfully light on its feet, showing uncommon class. One of the ten best Bordeaux wines of the year.Inc. VAT£2,570.42 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)
The 2014 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc has really blossomed since I tasted it from barrel. A brilliant, mesmerizing wine, the 2014 exudes personality and class. Lemon confit, white flowers, slate and orchard fruit give the wine its chiseled, expressive personality. Above all else, though, the 2014 is a wine that speaks to balance. There is quite a bit of ripeness and texture, but also vibrant acidity to keep things in check. The blend is 72 % Sémillon and 28 % Sauvignon.Inc. VAT£8,336.47 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)
The 2014 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc has really blossomed since I tasted it from barrel. A brilliant, mesmerizing wine, the 2014 exudes personality and class. Lemon confit, white flowers, slate and orchard fruit give the wine its chiseled, expressive personality. Above all else, though, the 2014 is a wine that speaks to balance. There is quite a bit of ripeness and texture, but also vibrant acidity to keep things in check. The blend is 72 % Sémillon and 28 % Sauvignon.Inc. VAT£1,141.61 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (95)
The 2015 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc has a relatively conservative bouquet, yet one that is well defined and focused; subtle gravel notes filter through the citrus fruit, white peach and honeysuckle aromas. The balanced palate features gorgeous dried mango, peach and white pepper notes. The acidity is supremely well judged, and a wonderful spiciness dominates the persistent finish. Compelling. Tasted blind at the Southwold 2015 Bordeaux tasting.Inc. VAT£6,675.67 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (95)
The 2015 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc has a relatively conservative bouquet, yet one that is well defined and focused; subtle gravel notes filter through the citrus fruit, white peach and honeysuckle aromas. The balanced palate features gorgeous dried mango, peach and white pepper notes. The acidity is supremely well judged, and a wonderful spiciness dominates the persistent finish. Compelling. Tasted blind at the Southwold 2015 Bordeaux tasting.Inc. VAT£3,912.04 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2016 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc is ample, creamy and quite expressive, even in the early going. Quite unusually, the 2016 is the first Blanc here to be made with a majority of Sauvignon Blanc, as the winemaking team led by Deputy managing director Jean-Philippe Delmas did not feel the Sémillon was strong enough. In this tasting, the Blanc gives the impression it will drink well relatively early, which is my preference as well.Inc. VAT£1,756.82 -
The Wine Independent (99)
The 2017 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc is a blend of 76.2% Semillon and 23.8% Sauvignon Blanc. The nose is very closed, eventually opening out to reveal notes of apple tart, fresh Bosc pears, and honey-drizzled white peaches with wafts of lime blossom and sea spray. The medium-bodied palate is tightly wound with fantastic energy and tension, delivering a long, mineral-laced finish.Inc. VAT£2,214.02 -
The Wine Independent (99)
The 2017 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc is a blend of 76.2% Semillon and 23.8% Sauvignon Blanc. The nose is very closed, eventually opening out to reveal notes of apple tart, fresh Bosc pears, and honey-drizzled white peaches with wafts of lime blossom and sea spray. The medium-bodied palate is tightly wound with fantastic energy and tension, delivering a long, mineral-laced finish.Inc. VAT£4,312.84 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (96)
Tasted side by side, the 2018 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc is unequivocally a few steps ahead of the 2018 Haut-Brion Blanc. I made sure to decant my bottle for three hours before penning a single note, as it always demands aeration. Slightly deeper in color, which is nothing unusual, it has a more complex bouquet of yellow fruit, peach skin, almond shavings, hazelnut and light lanolin notes, all beautifully defined. The palate is extremely well balanced with a tangy, marmalade-tinged entry, dried honey and a slight pepperiness toward the finish. Very cohesive and focused, this is a marvelous, quite cerebral La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc. Superb.Inc. VAT£772.40
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Vinous - Neal Martin (99)
The 2016 La Mission Haut-Brion was stunning from barrel, and now in bottle. It has a sublime bouquet of blackberries, briar and hints of dark chocolate and rose petals that gain intensity with aeration while maintaining ethereal delineation. It never steps on the accelerator too hard. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin. There is still a veneer of new oak that will need to be assimilated over the coming years. This is a deep La Mission that caresses the mouth. Touches of graphite lingering on a finish that fans out gloriously. Is the 2016 up there with the 1955 or 1989? Nearly.In Bond£3,174.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (99)
The 2016 La Mission Haut-Brion was stunning from barrel, and now in bottle. It has a sublime bouquet of blackberries, briar and hints of dark chocolate and rose petals that gain intensity with aeration while maintaining ethereal delineation. It never steps on the accelerator too hard. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin. There is still a veneer of new oak that will need to be assimilated over the coming years. This is a deep La Mission that caresses the mouth. Touches of graphite lingering on a finish that fans out gloriously. Is the 2016 up there with the 1955 or 1989? Nearly.In Bond£1,450.00 -
James Suckling (97)
A tight, solid red with crushed-berry, sandalwood, stone and cement flavors. It’s full-bodied, yet very tight and compact with excellent depth and intensity. Closed and austere, but there’s both energy and levity to it at the same time. Try after 2025.In Bond£1,073.00 -
The Wine Independent (100)
La Mission Haut-Brion 2018 has a deep garnet-purple color. It slowly unfurls to offer notes of blackcurrant cordial, plum preserves, and Morello cherries, leading to hints of menthol, cedar, pencil lead, and roses, plus a touch of unsmoked cigars. Full-bodied, rich and opulent on the palate, it is jam-packed with juicy black fruits and loads of fragrant accents, supported by ripe, grainy tannins, finishing long and earthy.In Bond£657.00 -
The Wine Independent (100)
La Mission Haut-Brion 2018 has a deep garnet-purple color. It slowly unfurls to offer notes of blackcurrant cordial, plum preserves, and Morello cherries, leading to hints of menthol, cedar, pencil lead, and roses, plus a touch of unsmoked cigars. Full-bodied, rich and opulent on the palate, it is jam-packed with juicy black fruits and loads of fragrant accents, supported by ripe, grainy tannins, finishing long and earthy.In Bond£1,261.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
The 2019 Château La Mission Haut-Brion is Merlot-dominated, checking in as 53% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's a more opulent wine compared to Haut-Brion, and the Merlot is front and center here, with ripe, sexy black cherry and redcurrant fruits as well as licorice, scorched earth, cedar pencil, and graphite aromas and flavors. Rich, exuberant, and straight up sexy on the palate, it's full-bodied, has a deep, layered mid-palate, building tannins, and a heavenly finish. Just a prodigious, powerful, off-the-charts expression of this terroir, it actually reminds me slightly of the 2005 (or 1998?) with its mix of sexiness and opulence. This is one of the few 2019s that will make your eyes roll back in your head. It will need 10-15 years of cellaring, but it’s a sensational wine on every level and will have 40+ years of prime drinking.In Bond£872.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
The 2019 Château La Mission Haut-Brion is Merlot-dominated, checking in as 53% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's a more opulent wine compared to Haut-Brion, and the Merlot is front and center here, with ripe, sexy black cherry and redcurrant fruits as well as licorice, scorched earth, cedar pencil, and graphite aromas and flavors. Rich, exuberant, and straight up sexy on the palate, it's full-bodied, has a deep, layered mid-palate, building tannins, and a heavenly finish. Just a prodigious, powerful, off-the-charts expression of this terroir, it actually reminds me slightly of the 2005 (or 1998?) with its mix of sexiness and opulence. This is one of the few 2019s that will make your eyes roll back in your head. It will need 10-15 years of cellaring, but it’s a sensational wine on every level and will have 40+ years of prime drinking.In Bond£1,372.50 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
The 2019 Château La Mission Haut-Brion is Merlot-dominated, checking in as 53% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's a more opulent wine compared to Haut-Brion, and the Merlot is front and center here, with ripe, sexy black cherry and redcurrant fruits as well as licorice, scorched earth, cedar pencil, and graphite aromas and flavors. Rich, exuberant, and straight up sexy on the palate, it's full-bodied, has a deep, layered mid-palate, building tannins, and a heavenly finish. Just a prodigious, powerful, off-the-charts expression of this terroir, it actually reminds me slightly of the 2005 (or 1998?) with its mix of sexiness and opulence. This is one of the few 2019s that will make your eyes roll back in your head. It will need 10-15 years of cellaring, but it’s a sensational wine on every level and will have 40+ years of prime drinking.In Bond£751.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
The 2019 Château La Mission Haut-Brion is Merlot-dominated, checking in as 53% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's a more opulent wine compared to Haut-Brion, and the Merlot is front and center here, with ripe, sexy black cherry and redcurrant fruits as well as licorice, scorched earth, cedar pencil, and graphite aromas and flavors. Rich, exuberant, and straight up sexy on the palate, it's full-bodied, has a deep, layered mid-palate, building tannins, and a heavenly finish. Just a prodigious, powerful, off-the-charts expression of this terroir, it actually reminds me slightly of the 2005 (or 1998?) with its mix of sexiness and opulence. This is one of the few 2019s that will make your eyes roll back in your head. It will need 10-15 years of cellaring, but it’s a sensational wine on every level and will have 40+ years of prime drinking.In Bond£1,195.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2020 La Mission Haut-Brion is a brilliant effort that exhibits a level of balance and integration that are impressive in such a powerful young Bordeaux. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of dark berries and plums mingled with burning embers, pencil shavings, violets and smoked black tea, it's full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with a layered, elegantly muscular profile, its brooding core of fruit framed by a generous endowment of powdery tannin that tempers the ripeness of the vintage. Checking in at 14.7% alcohol, it's nonetheless more classically styled than the more flamboyant 2019 vintage or even the slowly maturing 2010 which I re-tasted alongside for context.In Bond£827.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2020 La Mission Haut-Brion is a brilliant effort that exhibits a level of balance and integration that are impressive in such a powerful young Bordeaux. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of dark berries and plums mingled with burning embers, pencil shavings, violets and smoked black tea, it's full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with a layered, elegantly muscular profile, its brooding core of fruit framed by a generous endowment of powdery tannin that tempers the ripeness of the vintage. Checking in at 14.7% alcohol, it's nonetheless more classically styled than the more flamboyant 2019 vintage or even the slowly maturing 2010 which I re-tasted alongside for context.In Bond£3,422.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2020 La Mission Haut-Brion is a brilliant effort that exhibits a level of balance and integration that are impressive in such a powerful young Bordeaux. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of dark berries and plums mingled with burning embers, pencil shavings, violets and smoked black tea, it's full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with a layered, elegantly muscular profile, its brooding core of fruit framed by a generous endowment of powdery tannin that tempers the ripeness of the vintage. Checking in at 14.7% alcohol, it's nonetheless more classically styled than the more flamboyant 2019 vintage or even the slowly maturing 2010 which I re-tasted alongside for context.In Bond£1,426.00 -
Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (97)
Plenty of classic La Mission finesse and balance, touches of cloves and velvety tannins, this is surpremely balanced and elegant, with pummice 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. 73% new oak, harvest september 20 to October 8. No frost impact here and very little mildew, meaning the overall yield was up to 47hl/h, extremely generous for the vintage.In Bond£1,344.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (96-100)
One of the finest wines in the vintage, the 2023 Château La Mission Haut-Brion is based on 52.7% Merlot, 29.6% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's one hell of a gorgeous wine offering a massive nose of black raspberries, graphite, liquid flowers, scorched earth, and chocolate-like aromas and flavors. It delivers remarkable purity, full-bodied richness, no hard edges, and fine-grained, sweet tannins. The overall balance paired with opulence here is something to behold, and it’s incredible to find this level of quality in the vintage.In Bond£1,115.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (96-100)
One of the finest wines in the vintage, the 2023 Château La Mission Haut-Brion is based on 52.7% Merlot, 29.6% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's one hell of a gorgeous wine offering a massive nose of black raspberries, graphite, liquid flowers, scorched earth, and chocolate-like aromas and flavors. It delivers remarkable purity, full-bodied richness, no hard edges, and fine-grained, sweet tannins. The overall balance paired with opulence here is something to behold, and it’s incredible to find this level of quality in the vintage.In Bond£555.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (96-100)
One of the finest wines in the vintage, the 2023 Château La Mission Haut-Brion is based on 52.7% Merlot, 29.6% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's one hell of a gorgeous wine offering a massive nose of black raspberries, graphite, liquid flowers, scorched earth, and chocolate-like aromas and flavors. It delivers remarkable purity, full-bodied richness, no hard edges, and fine-grained, sweet tannins. The overall balance paired with opulence here is something to behold, and it’s incredible to find this level of quality in the vintage.In Bond£1,110.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (86)
The 1987 Laville Haut-Brion is a vexing wine at first. There is a “funk” on the nose, demonstrating a lot of reduction that I thought would never be rectified, even with vigorous aeration. However that potent struck match scent eventually does dissipate to reveal Laville’s trademark scents of honeysuckle and beeswax, a touch of pressed white flowers and fennel. The palate is well balanced, although, again, it takes time to reveal delineation and composure. There is pleasant weight and length, although it does not quite fire up in the glass like other vintages. Perhaps this is one where the sulphur management could have been better? Not bad, but not the best Laville Haut-Brion of the decade. Tasted at a white Bordeaux-themed private dinner in London.In Bond£438.00 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (89)
Complex, expressive aromas of lemon, honey, ginger, quinine, butterscotch and fresh herbs, plus a waxy suggestion of semillon. Supple and ripe, with moderate depth of flavor and good citric cut. Seems a bit stunted by the August '98 bottling. Finishes with good but not outstanding length.In Bond£438.00 -
In Bond£698.00
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Vinous - Ian D'Agata (94-97)
(73% semillon and 27% sauvignon blanc): Pale straw-green. Lovely semillon aromas of white peach and beeswax complicated by lavender, jasmine and minerals. Multilayered and complex on the palate, showing more minerality to go with the very intense, pure flavors of peach, lemon and green fig. The sauvignon blanc really stands out on the long, deep finish. This very bright, focused wine is one of the stars of the vintage, red wines included.In Bond£1,837.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)
The 2012 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc is a real stunner. All the elements fall into place in an utterly spellbinding white wine endowed with class and pedigree to burn. A host of orchard fruit, lemon oil, mint and sweet floral notes flesh out, but it is the wine's overall feel and phenomenal, precise finish that elevate it into to the stratosphere. The 2012 can be enjoyed now, but it will also age for decades.In Bond£2,606.00 -
Vinous - Ian D'Agata (93-96)
(76% semillon and 24% sauvignon blanc; 46 h/h yield): Bright, pale yellow-gold. Subtly complex aromas of white stone fruits, lime, nut oil, nutmeg, menthol and bitter grapefruit. A huge, deep wine with laser-like acidity lifting the highly concentrated tropical fruit, white peach, spice and herb flavors. As youthfully chewy, thick and palate-staining as this is, it's also wonderfully light on its feet, showing uncommon class. One of the ten best Bordeaux wines of the year.In Bond£2,134.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)
The 2014 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc has really blossomed since I tasted it from barrel. A brilliant, mesmerizing wine, the 2014 exudes personality and class. Lemon confit, white flowers, slate and orchard fruit give the wine its chiseled, expressive personality. Above all else, though, the 2014 is a wine that speaks to balance. There is quite a bit of ripeness and texture, but also vibrant acidity to keep things in check. The blend is 72 % Sémillon and 28 % Sauvignon.In Bond£6,915.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)
The 2014 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc has really blossomed since I tasted it from barrel. A brilliant, mesmerizing wine, the 2014 exudes personality and class. Lemon confit, white flowers, slate and orchard fruit give the wine its chiseled, expressive personality. Above all else, though, the 2014 is a wine that speaks to balance. There is quite a bit of ripeness and texture, but also vibrant acidity to keep things in check. The blend is 72 % Sémillon and 28 % Sauvignon.In Bond£946.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (95)
The 2015 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc has a relatively conservative bouquet, yet one that is well defined and focused; subtle gravel notes filter through the citrus fruit, white peach and honeysuckle aromas. The balanced palate features gorgeous dried mango, peach and white pepper notes. The acidity is supremely well judged, and a wonderful spiciness dominates the persistent finish. Compelling. Tasted blind at the Southwold 2015 Bordeaux tasting.In Bond£5,531.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (95)
The 2015 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc has a relatively conservative bouquet, yet one that is well defined and focused; subtle gravel notes filter through the citrus fruit, white peach and honeysuckle aromas. The balanced palate features gorgeous dried mango, peach and white pepper notes. The acidity is supremely well judged, and a wonderful spiciness dominates the persistent finish. Compelling. Tasted blind at the Southwold 2015 Bordeaux tasting.In Bond£3,244.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2016 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc is ample, creamy and quite expressive, even in the early going. Quite unusually, the 2016 is the first Blanc here to be made with a majority of Sauvignon Blanc, as the winemaking team led by Deputy managing director Jean-Philippe Delmas did not feel the Sémillon was strong enough. In this tasting, the Blanc gives the impression it will drink well relatively early, which is my preference as well.In Bond£1,456.00 -
The Wine Independent (99)
The 2017 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc is a blend of 76.2% Semillon and 23.8% Sauvignon Blanc. The nose is very closed, eventually opening out to reveal notes of apple tart, fresh Bosc pears, and honey-drizzled white peaches with wafts of lime blossom and sea spray. The medium-bodied palate is tightly wound with fantastic energy and tension, delivering a long, mineral-laced finish.In Bond£1,837.00 -
The Wine Independent (99)
The 2017 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc is a blend of 76.2% Semillon and 23.8% Sauvignon Blanc. The nose is very closed, eventually opening out to reveal notes of apple tart, fresh Bosc pears, and honey-drizzled white peaches with wafts of lime blossom and sea spray. The medium-bodied palate is tightly wound with fantastic energy and tension, delivering a long, mineral-laced finish.In Bond£3,578.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (96)
Tasted side by side, the 2018 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc is unequivocally a few steps ahead of the 2018 Haut-Brion Blanc. I made sure to decant my bottle for three hours before penning a single note, as it always demands aeration. Slightly deeper in color, which is nothing unusual, it has a more complex bouquet of yellow fruit, peach skin, almond shavings, hazelnut and light lanolin notes, all beautifully defined. The palate is extremely well balanced with a tangy, marmalade-tinged entry, dried honey and a slight pepperiness toward the finish. Very cohesive and focused, this is a marvelous, quite cerebral La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc. Superb.In Bond£641.00