The 2011 La Mission Haut Brion, a Bordeaux blend from the renowned Pessac Leognan region, stands as a testament to the esteemed terroir of its origin. Comprised of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, and 11% Cabernet Franc, this wine is characterized by its inky purple-red color and complex flavor profile.
The reviews present a consensus on the wine's excellent quality, with several notable mentions. Neal Martin, writing for both his own journal and Vinous, praises the wine's "classicism" and "impressive sense of energy," awarding it a score of 95 in both publications. He highlights its "medium-bodied" nature and "tensile tannins," appreciating its "crisp acidity" and "focused finish."
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also rated the wine at 95 points, describing it as "opulent, multidimensional, fleshy, rich, stunningly long, well-balanced." Parker notes the wine's "nobility and complexity," citing aromas of "burning embers, scorched earth, blueberry, black currant, licorice, and spice."
The wine's aging potential is emphasized by several reviewers. Wine Spectator's JM notes its "long, mesquite-tinged finish" and suggests it will be best from 2016 through 2030. Similarly, James Suckling likens it to the "excellent 1978," recommending to "try in 2019" for optimal enjoyment.
Decanter offers the highest praise with a score of 96, describing the wine as "a sculpted and finessed expression of La Mission," with "seductive smoky notes" and a "great future ahead."
Overall, the 2011 La Mission Haut Brion is admired for its refined structure, depth of flavor, and promising aging potential. It is a wine that showcases the classic traits of its region with a modern elegance that appeals to both traditionalists and contemporary wine enthusiasts alike.
