La Mission Haut Brion 1961 (750ML)

100 RP / 100 AG / 98 VM / 96 WS / 18.5 JR

One of the greatest 1961s, La Mission-Haut-Brion has been fabulous to drink for the last 5-10 years. Where well-stored, this wine will continue to drink well for 10-20 years. It is more developed and drinkable than the 1959, and it remains a thick, rich, super-aromatic wine with a textbook Graves bouquet of tobacco, barbecued meats, minerals, spices, and sweet red and black fruits. It is dense, full-bodied, alcoholic, and super-rich. This soft, opulently-textured wine makes for a fabulous drink. Absolutely stunning!

The 1961 La Mission Haut-Brion is even better. Layered and racy throughout, the La Mission leaves us speechless. Hints of violet, leather and sage add nuance over time, but it is the wine’s texture that is spellbinding. The rich, exuberant finish is simply unforgettable. What a treat it is to drink these two icons side by side. - Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

The 1961 La Mission Haut-Brion actually came from the same private collector and possibly the same case as the previous bottle encountered in Hong Kong. It has that sensational bouquet of vibrant black fruit infused with brine and Japanese nori; the definition is off the charts. The palate is structured and less sensual than the 1959 La Mission, yet it is armed with ineffable precision and lip-smacking sapidity. Juxtaposing the two, this bottle does not quite have the brilliance of the 1955 La Mission, but it is damned close. Tasted at the La Mission Haut Brion dinner at Amuse Bouche in Hong Kong. - Neal Martin, Vinous Media

A truly classic Bordeaux that epitomizes complexity and distinction in a red wine. Well-defined but beautifully integrated aromas and flavors of cedar, earth, tobacco, chocolate and plum make it memorable, while a lively, firm texture keeps it fresh to drink. A fabulous taste experience from start to lingering finish. Drink through 2010.--1961 Bordeaux horizontal. - Wine Spectator

Looks very much more developed and paler than the 1959. Rich, sweet, gunmetal character on the nose with a dry finish. This wine really reverberates on the palate. Long. Still lively. Meaty flavours yet relatively delicate in build. Very sweet with a menthol note and a dry finish. Great energy. Like the 1975, this wine really improved in the glass. - Jancis Robinson