Tasted blind at the 2007 Bordeaux horizontal in Southwold. The La Mission Haut-Brion 2007 has very good fruit intensity on the nose: well defined, graphite, cedar and ebullient black fruits. There is immense breeding here. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, a touch of austerity, very composed and refined with an elegant, graphite tinged finish with a touch of cracked pepper on the aftertaste. This is a sophisticated La Mission that in blind conditions just pips Haut-Brion. Re-tasted at the chateau the following September with consistent notes. Tasted September 2011.
Neal Martin
Wine Journal Nov 2011
92
The 2007 La Mission Haut Brion, a candidate for wine of the vintage, exhibits a dense ruby/purple hue along with notes of melted licorice, blueberries, cassis, burning embers, and charcoal, sweet tannin, medium to full body, a fleshy mouthfeel, and an endearing succulence as well as lushness. Already appealing, it should continue to evolve and drink well for 15+ years. It is a great success for the vintage.