La Mission Haut-Brion 2012

Lavishly intense and opulent, Château La Mission Haut-Brion’s characteristic wines are imbued with a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. The property of the Roman Catholic Church, it was repossessed after the French revolution before being auctioned off to its first American owners in the 19th century. Of the 30.7 hectare vineyard, 27 hectares are reserved for red grapes and comprise Cabernet Sauvignon (c.46%), Merlot (c.44%) and Cabernet Franc (c.10%). Its terroir consists of deep gravel over clay, sand and chalk in the topsoil and sees the vineyard placed on two ridges of gravel hills. Situated between the Ars and Peugue stream, the estate experiences moisture even in the hottest, driest vintages. All of these factors contribute towards the creation of a deeply complex, full-bodied wine that is bursting with smoke, tobacco, earth and spice perfumes. A highly tannic wine, Château La Mission Haut-Brion performs best after between 15-25 years of ageing.