Tasting Notes
Vinous 91
Deep ruby. Deep, complex nose of blackcurrant, coffee and fresh herbs. Similarly complex on the palate, offering rich yet fresh flavors of black fruits, aromatic herbs and cocoa along with a hint of violet. This long, youthfully chewy wine is much bigger than the very good 2008. Like La Mission, this has improved greatly since the Primeurs, when I probably underrated it by a point or two. Don’t think I’m crazy when I tell you that this wine is very close in quality to some La Missions from lesser vintages of the past.
Robert Parker 91
The second wine, the 2009 La Chapelle de la Mission, is essentially an equal part blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon with slightly more Cabernet Franc that came in at 14.2% natural alcohol. It reveals an extraordinary meaty nose displaying hints of volcanic soils, burning embers, sweet black currants, blueberries, plums, tobacco leaf and wet stones. This tasty, full-bodied, supple-textured beauty should drink well for 15-20 years.
Anticipated maturity: 2012-2032
JancisRobinson.com 17++
46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc. Aged 15–18 months in 75% new oak. Leathery nose, pure blackcurrant fruit and some prune aromas too – not in a bad way, there is no lack of freshness. Modern in structure on the palate, with expressive black fruit and feathery tannins, plus that leathery character all the way through, and lingering on the finish. Classic and fragrant. (RH)
Anticipated maturity: 2015-2029
