2016 Château la Mission Haut Brion Rouge

The Hidden Cellar is Grand Cru's exclusive wine club concept, specially designed for our most loyal customers. You automatically become a member if you regularly order from Grand Cru. As a Hidden Cellar member, you'll have first access to a selection of exceptionally rare wines: vintages, iconic Bordeaux appellations and Burgundies, Italian Super Tuscans, Napa Valley wines, and rare Champagne. We can offer these gems directly from the wineries at very attractive prices (well below market), often wines that are no longer available or unaffordable. So, the wines come directly from the wineries and haven't traveled halfway around the world in questionable circumstances.

View all the benefits of the Hidden Cellar membership here .

château la mission haut brion: origin and story

Château la Mission Haut Brion, located near Château Haut-Brion in the prestigious Pessac-Léognan appellation, has a rich history dating back to the 16th century. The estate was long owned by the Dillon family, known for their commitment to quality. Today, under the leadership of Domaine Clarence Dillon, it is an icon of the right banks of the Graves region. The wines are renowned for their elegance, structure, and aging potential. The vines are grown on unique, well-drained gravel and sandy soils, with a temperate maritime climate that imparts freshness and complexity to the wines.

climate, terroir and grape varieties

The climate in Pessac-Léognan is influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in mild winters and cool summers. This promotes slow ripening and acidity retention. The soil structure—consisting of gravel, gravel, and clay—gives the wines structure and finesse. The 2016 Grand Vin Rouge is traditionally a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. That year, the Merlot content was slightly higher, contributing to its intensity and tactile roundness.

harvest, vinification and aging

The 2016 harvest took place under ideal conditions: warm and dry with cool nights, which ensured optimal concentration and balance. Vinification took place in small vats, with careful maceration and temperature control to preserve both fruit and tannins. The wine then matured for 18 to 20 months in high-quality French oak barrels. This imparted refined oak notes, hints of cedar, and subtle spice, without overshadowing the purity of the fruit.

color, smell and taste

Visually, the 2016 Château La Mission Haut Brion Rouge displays a deep, dark ruby red color with purple reflections. The nose unfolds a complex bouquet of ripe cassis, black cherries, tobacco, and a delicate smokiness. Elegantly interwoven with nuances of coffee beans and cedar. On the palate, the wine has a silky texture, saturated with dark fruit, graphite, mineral notes, and lively acidity. The tannins are fine yet powerful, offering structure and a long, precise finish. According to renowned wine reviews, the 2016 is praised for its balance between ripe fruit and lively tension, with excellent aging potential.

a natural development of the wine

Considering this vintage is now over nine years old (2016–2025), it's already showing wonderful development. Wine is a natural product, and it remains fascinating to witness its aromatic layers develop. The wine is still in peak condition; ripe tertiary aromas are beginning to unfold, with delicately aged notes of autumn leaves, leather, and dried fruit. Yet it retains a beautiful acidity and refinement – ideal for decanting now and gradually evaluating whether to keep it for a few more years or enjoy it for special occasions.

For the serious sommelier, passionate consumer, and wine investor, this 2016 is an excellent choice. It combines finesse, depth, and aging potential – characteristics that investors appreciate, and that appeal to sommeliers with its balance and refined structure. Through Hidden Cellar, you have exclusive access to this rarity at competitive prices and with a guarantee of optimal provenance and aging conditions. This unique opportunity deserves your attention.

shipping hidden cellar wines

Hidden Cellar wines must be ordered separately from our regular collection of 4,500 wines. They are usually included in our regular shipments (on average every two months). If you prefer, you can opt for Express Delivery: we'll send the wines directly to you, and you'll receive them within 1–2 weeks.