Wines Pessac-Léognan Château La Mission Haut-Brion - 2005

Château La Mission Haut-Brion 2005 is a quintessential example of the esteemed Pessac-Léognan appellation, crafted in the heart of Graves, Bordeaux. This Grand Cru red marries predominantly Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of Cabernet Franc, showcasing the classic Bordeaux blend. The 2005 vintage is celebrated for its warmth and ideal harvest conditions, resulting in a wine of remarkable concentration and impressive ageing potential. In the glass, you can anticipate complex aromas of blackcurrant, plum, cigar box, graphite, and hints of truffle, underpinned by refined tannins and a lingering, harmonious finish. The wine is vinified and matured in new oak barrels, imparting further structure and subtle spice, and confirming its capacity to develop gracefully over decades.

Pessac-Léognan lies on the left bank of the Garonne, within the Graves region, and is renowned for its gravel-rich soils interspersed with clay and sand, providing excellent drainage and heat retention for optimal ripening. The climate is temperate with both maritime and continental influences, ensuring a long growing season ideal for ripening both Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The area's history is rich, often cited as the birthplace of Bordeaux's fine wines, with estates such as Château La Mission Haut-Brion tracing their heritage back centuries and playing a pivotal role in the region's rise to international prestige.

A wine of this stature deserves carefully chosen cuisine. Roasted lamb with rosemary, aged ribeye steak with wild mushrooms, or a classic tournedos Rossini will complement the wine’s depth and elegance. For a regional pairing, consider duck magret with a blackberry sauce or a truffled roast chicken. Mature cheeses like Comté or aged Gouda also pair beautifully, echoing the wine’s earthy, savoury undertones.

Allow Château La Mission Haut-Brion 2005 to breathe in a decanter for at least two hours before serving to fully reveal its complexity. The optimal serving temperature is between 17-18°C. At this point in its evolution, the wine is in a magnificent drinking window but will continue to evolve gracefully, so feel free to cellar a few bottles for future enjoyment.