2021 Château La Mission Haut-Brion La Chapelle de la Mission Haut-Brion

Winery Château La Mission Haut-Brion

Château La Mission Haut-Brion belongs to the historic elite of Pessac-Léognan and, along with Château Haut-Brion, forms one of Bordeaux's most respected duos. The estate is known for its powerful yet refined style, combining structure and aromatic complexity. La Chapelle de La Mission Haut-Brion is the château's second wine and is made with the same precision and care, but with a more accessible profile and a slightly earlier drinking time.

More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.

Pessac-Léognan and the 2021 vintage

Pessac-Léognan is known for its wines with a pronounced mineral and often slightly smoky undertone, sourced from gravelly soils with sand and clay. These soils provide structure, freshness, and aromatic depth.

The 2021 vintage was cool and demanding, resulting in lower alcohol levels and crisp acidity. For La Chapelle de La Mission Haut-Brion, this resulted in a wine with classic balance, greater refinement, and less emphasis on sheer power than in warmer years.

Vineyards and origins of La Chapelle

The grapes for La Chapelle de La Mission Haut-Brion come from plots not selected for the Grand Vin, but which share the same soils and exposure. These are younger vines and specific lots that better suit the style of the second wine.

This selection produces a wine that clearly bears the identity of La Mission Haut-Brion, but with a softer structure and earlier accessibility.

Grape varieties and composition

The exact composition of the blend varies by vintage, but generally consists of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc. Cabernet Sauvignon provides structure and freshness, while Merlot adds roundness and texture.

In 2021, this combination results in a wine that is more polished and rounder than Le Clarence de Haut-Brion, while retaining tension and precision.

Harvest and vinification

The harvest was carefully selected to ensure a good balance of ripeness and freshness. After arriving in the cellar, the grapes were vinified with a focus on gentle extraction.

The oak maturation was aimed at integration and refinement, with the use of wood remaining supportive and preserving the aromatic clarity of the wine.

Color, smell and taste

In the glass, the wine reveals a deep ruby red color. The nose is fresh and complex, with aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark fruit, complemented by notes of pencil shavings, spices, and a hint of menthol.

On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, with a meaty yet refined texture. The tannins are powdery and well-integrated, while fresh acidity creates tension. The finish is long, delicate, and elegant.

Structure, style and drinking window

The 2021 La Chapelle de La Mission Haut-Brion combines accessibility with clear cellaring potential. The style is classic and balanced, with more roundness than power.

Within its drinking window, the wine will continue to gain in cohesion, while retaining its fresh and refined structure.

Summary of professional reviews

Yohan Castaing rates the 2021 La Chapelle de La Mission Haut-Brion 92 points, praising its fresh aroma, fleshy texture, and perfect balance of fruit, tannins, and acidity. He emphasizes the elegant, almost ethereal finish and notes that this wine is rounder and more polished than Le Clarence de Haut-Brion. James Suckling awards 93 points and describes the wine as juicy and refined, with vibrant black fruit, chocolate, cedar, and an appealing depth. Together, the reviews paint a picture of a classic, accessible, yet serious Pessac-Léognan with ageing potential.

Would you like to order wines from Château La Mission Haut-Brion online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you this information when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

Wine and food pairings

Roast veal loin with sage and a light jus complements the refined texture.

Roasted duck breast with beetroot and orange combines beautifully with the juicy fruit and the fresh acidity.

Grilled eggplant with black olives, thyme and pine nuts works well with the earthy and spicy notes.

Slow-cooked beef stew with bay leaf and cloves enhances the depth and balance of the wine.

Ravioli filled with ricotta, spinach and nutmeg matches the round texture.

Semi-hard cow's milk cheese such as Tomme de Savoie offers a harmonious and soft contrast.