La Chapelle De La Mission Haut Brion 2010 (750ML)

93 RP / 93 WA / 93 WS / 93 VM / 93-94 JS

The 2010 La Chapelle de la Mission, which includes the production from the now-extinct La Tour Haut-Brion vineyard, is a blend of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc, which is a high percentage for the latter grape. Fleshy, succulent and opulent along the lines of the 2009 (which did surprise me), it is a big wine, with boatloads of glycerin and a classic Graves character of scorched earth, burning embers, charcoal, and plenty of black cherry and black currant fruit. The glycerin level is high, the fruit level impressive, and the purity and texture endearing. - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate

Made of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc, the 2010 La Chapelle de la Mission Haut-Brion is deep garnet colored and has opulent scents of baked raspberries, Black Forest cake and blueberry tart with hints of star anise, prunes and spice cake. Full-bodied, rich and seductive in the mouth, the palate has a solid frame of firm, grainy tannins and bold freshness, finishing long and mineral laced. - LPB, Wine Advocate

Deliciously tarry from the start, with a cauldron of steeped blackberry, boysenberry and pastis-soaked plum fruit melded to well-roasted apple wood and graphite notes. Intense and grippy, showing purity and polish. Should benefit from mid-term cellaring. Best from 2016 through 2030. 4,500 cases made. — JM, Wine Spectator

Lovely balance of plums, berries, with hints of vanilla bean. Lemon rind too. Full and super silky with a lovely sweet fruit underneath. Balanced and refined. - James Suckling