Tasting Notes
JancisRobinson.com 18/20
40.8% Merlot, 7.6% Cabernet Franc, 51.6% Cabernet Sauvignon. Harvested between 10 September and 2 October. Barrel sample. Deepest crimson with very dark core. Intense, pure aromatic cassis and a hint of cassis leaf, though fully ripe. Smells very Cabernet. And the tannins are upright and structured but extremely lithe and supple. No thickness here. Agile. Just a little chewy on the finish. So seemingly approachable and full of energy. (JH)
Anticipated maturity: 2026-2040
Vinous 94/100
The 2018 La Mission Haut-Brion is beautiful and expansive from the first taste. Dark cherry, mocha, herbs, licorice, rose petal and mint open effortlessly. All the elements are so well balanced. Although the 2018 is quite easy to appreciate at this stage, it also has terrific energy and more than enough verve to develop positively for several decades.
Anticipated maturity: 2026-2048