1993 Château La Mission Haut-Brion
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Tasting notes
The 1993 La Mission Haut-Brion is a better offering compared to the previous vintages (though some might say that’s damning it with faint praise). The blend saw half the amount of Merlot compared to 1992 and a higher percentage of Cabernet Franc (18%). On the slightly rustic nose, light espresso aromas infuse black fruit that becomes quite ferrous with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied and displays commendable vigor. In keeping with the style of the vintage, this is a "no frills" La Mission, and it feels a bit austere on the finish, though it delivers decent length and harmony. Fine. Tasted over lunch at La Trompette in London.
Critic scores
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Mid ruby with some evolution at the rim. Soft and fully evolved on the nose. Pronounced acidity. Dusty tannins emerging. Pretty light and approaching its twilight years. Fruit is fading. (JR)
Actually slightly deeper than the 1994 and 1995. Colour right out to the rim. Light, aromatic, leafy nose reminiscent of a mature Bordeaux blend from Penedés (sorry, about this, messieurs). Lovely, well-balanced mouthful with a lack of tannin at the end. Very appetising. Dunked biscuits. Neat. Very satisfying for seekers of harmony. Minerally, dry end. (JR)
About the producer
Ch. la Mission Haut-Brion – sister estate of Ch. Haut-Brion and part of the Clarence Dillon stable – is one of the greatest estates in all of Bordeaux. Based in Pessac-Léognan but not officially classified, it produces outstanding red and white wines.