Introducing the 2005 La Mission Haut Brion, a Bordeaux Blend that hails from the prestigious Pessac Leognan sub-region of Bordeaux, France. This red wine is a true masterpiece, capturing the essence of its terroir and showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the renowned producer, La Mission Haut Brion.
In the glass, the wine displays a deep purple color with a captivating blue hue on the rim, hinting at its youthful vibrancy. As you bring the glass to your nose, a symphony of aromas unfolds. Fresh red berries dance alongside refreshing mint, creating a delightful juxtaposition against tannic notes of oak and leather. Hints of white pepper, sweet spice, and tar add complexity to the bouquet, inviting you to explore further.
Upon the first sip, the palate is greeted by bright red raspberry flavors that intertwine with huge, juicy tannins. The wine's structure is impeccable, showcasing a balance between power and finesse. As the wine lingers on the palate, it reveals layers of flavors and textures that continue to evolve and captivate.
The critics agree on the exceptional quality of the 2005 La Mission Haut Brion. Alex Lallos from JJ Buckley awards it a remarkable score of 95, highlighting its potential for further aging. Wine Spectator's review echoes this sentiment, awarding the wine an impressive 97 points and describing the Indian spices and blackberry aromas as enticing and inspiring.
Neal Martin's Wine Journal gives the wine a score of 98, praising its fabulous bouquet and refined finish. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate goes even further, awarding it a perfect 100 points and calling it pure perfection. James Suckling also joins the chorus of praise, awarding the wine a score of 99 and describing its texture as velvety and beautiful.
The 2005 La Mission Haut Brion has been hailed as one of the wines of the vintage by Wine & Spirits, who awarded it 97 points and described it as a glorious vintage. Wine Enthusiast also praises its opulent fruit and velvety structure, awarding it 97 points.
If you can exercise patience, Jeff Leve recommends waiting until at least 2025 to fully appreciate the wine's stellar drinking experience. Jeb Dunnuck describes it as a blockbuster styled wine with massive amounts of ripe, smoky black fruits and a magical finish, while Vinous awards it 97 points and praises its intense bouquet and pliant palate.
Jane Anson, in her recent review, finds the 2005 La Mission Haut Brion a little more approachable than its counterpart, Haut-Brion, but still at the beginning of its drinking life. She commends its balance, lusciousness, and sculpted nature, awarding it an impressive score of 98.
In conclusion, the 2005 La Mission Haut Brion is a wine of extraordinary quality and complexity. With its exceptional reviews and incredible aging potential, this Bordeaux Blend is a true gem that will continue to evolve and impress for decades to come.