CHÂTEAU LA MISSION HAUT BRION

Captures the easy drinkability of the 2001s at this stage, heading towards 25 years old, still a vibrant pale raspberry colour and now crammed with soft caressing tannins. The fruit character is all finessed spun raspberry and redcurrant puree, with tobacco and white truffle waves through the finish. Easily passes the level test - meaning that the level of this glass goes down extremely quickly, as it is deliciously moreish. Harvest September 17 to October 6, 75% new oak for ageing after a summer that saw almost no rain between July 20 and September 20, with just a few days of more challenging weather during harvest. Jean-Philippe Delmas director. Drinking range: 2024 - 2044 Rating: 93 Jane Anson, Decanter (Jul 2024)

The 2001 La Mission Haut-Brion is less complex on the nose than the preceding millennial vintage. There is more blue fruit here, and perhaps greater purity compared to the 2000, though it does not quite possess the same amplitude. The saline, medium-bodied palate delivers supple tannins and hints of tangy black olives (kalamata, maybe?), and shows wonderful substance and grip toward the pure finish. Jean-Philippe Delmas commented upon the “surprising depth” of the 2001, which is true. But at the moment, the 2000 has a little more personality. 13.2% alcohol. Tasted at the château with Jean-Philippe Delmas. Drinking range: 2021 - 2050 Rating: 94 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (Sept 2021)

Ruby-red. Black cherry, tobacco and minerals on the nose. Dense but juicy and sharply delineated, thanks to its firm spine of acidity. A bit compact today, but finishes with lovely musky sweetness, firm but ripe tannins and superb length. Rating: 92 Stephen Tanzer, www.vinousmedia.com (Dec 2014)