In Bond Fine Wine. 2005 Château Mission Haut Brion, Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France. Grand Cru Classé • Red Bordeaux in 6x75cl. Top critic score: 100/100 (RP). Drinking window: 2021–2060. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
James Suckling (JS) — 97/100 · Wine Spectator, 31/03/2008 · Drink 2015+
The Indian spices and blackberry on the nose are so enticing and inspiring, leading to a full-bodied palate, with very polished tannins that caress. Goes on and on as this builds on the palate, with a mineral and berry aftertaste. For long-term aging. Best after 2015. 5,665 cases made.
Robert Parker (RP) — 97/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 30/04/2008 · Drink 2016-2048
There are slightly more than 5,000 cases of the 2005 La Mission-Haut-Brion, a blend of 69% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and a touch of Cabernet Franc. While there is little difference between La Mission and Haut-Brion's terroirs (their vineyards are only separated by a two-lane road), La Mission possesses more fat, texture, and intensity. An enormously endowed wine with huge tannin and structu…
Robert Parker (RP) — 96–100/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 30/04/2007 · Drink 2013-2038
The 2005 La Mission-Haut-Brion is even more impressive this year than it was in 2006. There are approximately 5,500 cases of this blend of 69% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 1% Cabernet Franc. Jean-Philippe Delmas told me that for the first time in this vineyard's history, the entire vineyard was seriously crop-thinned. The result is a wine that is reminiscent of the 1989, but with more stru…