2018 Château La Mission Haut-Brion Rouge

The La Mission Haut-Brion 2018 is a blend of 53.5% Merlot, 42.9% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3.6% Cabernet Franc. Colored deep garnet purple, it emerges from the glass with an initial wave of stewed black and red plum, mulberry and black raspberry scents, followed by pronounced notes of warm cassis, clove oil, violets and chocolate box, with hints of cast iron pan, pencil lead and forest floor coming after a few minutes. The medium to full palate shimmers with energy, delivering layers of red and black fruit with earthy and mineral sparks and a texture so satiny you can't forget to look for it, ending with astonishing vibrancy. This is so wonderfully evocative and unique, and yet it feels like it's holding something back. It makes for an impressive glass at the moment, but give it a good 5 years in the bottle to allow further nuances to emerge and expect it to seriously reward those who can wait a good 12-15 years, while it really should get going.

The spring of 2018 is characterized by regular storm rain. The vine developed a beautiful vegetative surface, but growth was slowed by the violent disturbance of May 26. However, she quickly recovered. The month of June is mild, allowing uniform flowering. A hot summer followed, accompanied by rare precipitation. Veraison takes place in very good conditions. The anticyclone comes into effect in September. We harvest under a radiant sun, all grape varieties are picked ripe and the health condition is perfect.