Wines Pessac-Léognan La Mission Haut-Brion - La Chapelle de La Mission Haut-Brion - 2009

Viniou Reviews

La Chapelle de La Mission Haut-Brion 2009 is the second wine of the esteemed Château La Mission Haut-Brion, situated in the Pessac-Léognan appellation within Bordeaux’s Graves region. The 2009 vintage stands out for its exceptional ripeness and structure, a hallmark of the sunny and generous year. This cuvée Rouge is crafted from a classic Bordeaux blend, typically featuring Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. Its vinification follows the rigorous standards of its grand vin, incorporating careful selection of parcels and meticulous ageing in French oak barrels. The result is a wine of refined complexity, with notes of blackcurrant, plum, cedar, graphite, and subtle hints of tobacco alongside velvety tannins and a long, elegant finish.

The Pessac-Léognan appellation is celebrated for producing some of Bordeaux’s most elegant and age-worthy red wines. Located just south of the city of Bordeaux, its terroir is composed of gravelly soils that provide excellent drainage—ideal for cultivating noble grape varieties. The microclimate is tempered by nearby forests and rivers, offering the vines a unique balance of warmth and humidity. With a long history dating back to the Middle Ages, Graves and Pessac-Léognan are synonymous with sophistication, tradition, and innovation, producing wines that are both powerful and refined.

This La Chapelle de La Mission Haut-Brion 2009 is beautifully suited to refined culinary pairings. Its richness and complexity marry wonderfully with classic French dishes such as entrecôte à la bordelaise, duck breast with a red wine jus, or confit de canard. Regional specialities like lamb shoulder slowly roasted with herbs, or earthy mushroom-based dishes, complement its fleshy fruit and herbal nuances. Hard cheeses such as aged Comté or Ossau-Iraty are also excellent matches.

To fully appreciate its aromatic depth and supple texture, decant the wine for at least an hour before serving. The ideal tasting temperature is 16-18°C. This will allow the wine’s bouquet to unfold and its tannins to soften, providing a harmonious and memorable experience.