Created by the noble Lestonnac family in the early years of the 16th century, the vineyard of Chateau La Mission Haut-Brion owes its name and its reputation to a missionary order commonly known as the Lazarites, who held the property from 1682 until the French Revolution.

The property is situated just opposite that of Chateau Haut-Brion, in the Pessac-Leognan appellation of the Northern Graves region. The vineyard covers an area of 29 hectares of which 26.60 hectares are planted with 42.7% Merlot, 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10.3% Cabernet Franc with an annual production of 6,000 to 7,000 cases. Over 3 hectares are devoted to white grape varieties (Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc).

In 1983, the Dillon family, already owners of Chateau Haut-Brion, added Chateau La Mission Haut-Brion to Domaine Clarence Dillon’s holdings. The new owners immediately set to work on an ambitious renovation program for the property, giving La Mission a new lease on life.

In the space of twenty-five years, the Dillon family, having fallen under the spell of this enchanting estate, successfully completed their impressive makeover of Chateau La Mission Haut-Brion so that for many years to come , it might continue to offer wine connoisseurs the world over a little glimpse of paradise in each bottle.

Chateau La Mission Haut-Brion is definitely bewitching. It possesses a great intensity that delights with complex red fruits and and the signature of its terroir showing notes of Havana cigars, chocolate, and roasted cedarwood. On the palate, the wine is spherical and generous with a long, silky finish.

The 2015 La Mission Haut Brion is a truly exceptional wine that embodies the essence of Bordeaux. With a deep garnet-purple color, this Bordeaux Blend is a blend of 58% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, creating a harmonious combination of flavors.

On the nose, this wine initially appears shy and youthful, but with time it reveals bright red currants, black raspberries, cassis, and freshly crushed blackberries. As it unfolds, there is an earthy/minerally undercurrent of damp soil, charcoal, iron ore, and truffles, accompanied by a delicate waft of violets.

Medium to full-bodied, this wine is decadently fruited, yet wonderfully elegant. The very ripe and silky tannins add a smooth texture, while the freshness lingers in the background. The vibrant red and black fruit flavors create an almost electric intensity on the palate. The finish is long and minerally, leaving a lasting impression.

Renowned wine critic Lisa Perrotti-Brown from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate rates this wine with a stunning 98 points, describing it as "just beautiful." She recommends giving it 6-7 years in the bottle before indulging, as it has the potential to age gracefully for the next 30+ years.

Other critics also praise the 2015 La Mission Haut Brion. Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com awards it an impressive 99 points, highlighting its incredibly ripe, dark red fruits and soft, yet strong tannins. He predicts it will easily age for several decades.

Jeb Dunnuck from jebdunnuck.com rates this wine with 98 points, describing it as "opulent, sexy and concentrated." He emphasizes its incredible depth of flavor, intensity, and elegance, predicting it will age beautifully for three decades.

James Suckling from jamessuckling.com awards this wine a perfect 100 points, praising its straight, minerally character and toned muscles. He suggests waiting until 2024 to fully appreciate its potential.

Wine Enthusiast rates this wine with 96 points, describing it as rich, dense, and powerful. The juicy black fruits enhance the impression of generosity and concentration, making it a wine worth waiting for until 2027.

Wine Spectator also awards this wine 96 points, highlighting its alluring and distinctive edge. The fleshy and broad fruit easily absorbs the slightly burly tannins, creating a lengthy finish with notes of dark pudding, warm tar, licorice snap, and roasted alder.

Decanter rates this wine with 96 points, emphasizing its tautness, vibrancy, and energy. Despite the high alcohol content, the wine is well-balanced and barely perceptible. The beautiful tannic grip and forward motion indicate great aging potential.

Overall, the 2015 La Mission Haut Brion is a wine of remarkable quality, elegance, and ageability. Its complex flavors, silky tannins, and vibrant fruit characteristics make it a true gem from Bordeaux. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for years to come, this wine is sure to impress even the most discerning wine connoisseurs.