Lot 44
CHÂTEAU LA MISSION HAUT-BRION 1982 (2) WA 94
Lot 44 Details
CHÂTEAU LA MISSION HAUT-BRION 1982
Pessac-Léognan. Cru Classé
u. 2 x bn. 1 x damaged label
Tasted blind at Chez Bruce in London, a bottle of impeccable provenance—the 1982 La Mission Haut Brion—has proven to be a little variable in recent years. Here, it has a gorgeous bouquet that is very well defined, with dark berry fruit, potpourri and a hint of brine. It feels a little backward at first yet soon opens up, the fruit gaining more and more intensity until peaking at around 30-40 minutes. The palate displays firm structure on the entry, quite masculine with good grip. There is a fine, earthy character to this La Mission along with class and focus. Yet I found more sophistication on the 1982 La Tour Haut-Brion served alongside. It just does not quite deliver that killer blow on the finish that would have elevated it to the realms of, say, the 1989 or 1990. It is probably at its peak now but should continue that way for many years. Tasted June 2016. WA 94