The harvests for the 2014 La Mission Haut-Brion took place from September 5th to September 12th, in exceptional meteorological conditions. The perfectly ripe 72% Semillon and 28% Sauvignon Blanc compose a clever combination.
At first, the nose is restrained but quickly gives off well-ripened fruit (yellow fruit), and subtle vanilla notes. That restriction proves a complete control of the ageing in oak barrels, without erasing the aromatic depth of the wine. On the palate, throughout tasting, this harmonious Pessac-Léognan Blanc carries amplitude, richness and frank vibrancy. This dry white wine is rich without being heavy and has a good ageing potential.
The 2014 La Mission Haut Brion Blanc has a surprisingly strict bouquet that needed coaxing from the glass, eventually offering scents of Cornice pear, jasmine and honeysuckle. This is very subtle and clearly will need a few years in bottle, just like Laville Haut Brion demanded. The palate is well balanced with crisp acidity, a cheeky pinch of lemongrass enlivening the senses on the entry, quite a feral La Mission Haut Brion Blanc with the Sémillon fully in control on the lightly honeyed, spicy finish. It is a great La Mission Haut Brion, although I remain convinced that the 2014 Haut Brion Blanc has the class this year.