CRITIC REVIEWS
Neal Martin
The 2025 La Mission Haut-Brion was picked from August 28 until September 19 at around 23 hl/ha, lower than Haut-Brion, perhaps due to higher density of planting and less competition between vines. There is less new oak, at around 59%, the same as Haut-Brion, down from around 80% in recent years. This has a perfumed bouquet, one of the most floral that I can recall, beautifully defined with black cherries, blueberry and crushed violet scents. The palate is medium-bodied with chiselled tannins, a silver thread of acidity, quite linear in style with a strict, tensile, graphite-tinged finish. Yeah, it has to play second fiddle to Haut-Brion this year, but it is still a great La Mission. 13.6% alcohol.
JancisRobinson.com
58.3% Merlot, 38.3% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3.4% Cabernet Franc. 26 hl/ha. Cask sample.Unusually fragrant and floral at this early stage. Lovely texture, the tannins smooth and refined, cushioned by the ripe fruit. Plenty of power behind, though, and a mouth-watering freshness to the long, powerful finish. Focused and spot-on. (JL)


