Tasting Notes
Vinous – 93
The 2004 La Mission Haut-Brion has a lovely nose with blackberry, scorched earth, sage and light truffle scents, with a touch of antique mahogany bureau. There’s fine delineation here. The palate is medium-bodied with "thick" tannins that exert a fine grip. The 2004 is spicy with black pepper and light truffle notes. There’s just a little austerity on the finish, but it complements this La Mission rather than detracts. Very fine, though much more austere than the Haut-Brion.
Anticipated maturity: 2024-2048
JancisRobinson.com – 17.0
Still very young but recognisable. Still chewy.
Anticipated maturity: 2014-2030
Robert Parker – 90
While La Mission Haut-Brion’s 2004 is not one of this estate’s top successes, it is an outstanding wine, no doubt because of this extraordinary terroir. Deep ruby/purple with notes of lead pencil shavings intermixed with black cherries, cassis, and a hint of scorched earth, medium body, sweet tannin, and a good, but uninspiring finish, this attractive, mid-weight La Mission should age nicely for 15 or more years.
Anticipated maturity: 2007-2022
