Château La Mission Haut-Brion 2021 Pessac-Léognan (75cl, 13.2%)

A classified-growth Pessac-Léognan red wine from Bordeaux, produced by Château La Mission Haut-Brion, owned by Domaine Clarence Dillon. The 2021 blend is 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 46.5% Merlot and 2.5% Cabernet Franc. Vinification took place in large temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, followed by 22 months in 100% new French oak barrels; final blending occurs shortly after malolactic fermentation and before barrel ageing. The bouquet opens with graphite and scorched earth, then tobacco leaf, cigar box, cassis, violet-tinged blue fruits, nougat and sweet spice. The palate is medium-bodied and energetic, with dark berries, plums and cherries framed by loamy soil and licorice, bright acidity, sweet spice, herbal tones and graphite-like minerality. The finish is long and mouthwatering, with graphite minerality, smoky red fruit and a subtle herbal edge.