Castle La Mission Haut Brion - Pessac-Léognan 1999

Wine Advocate

91 / 100

byRobert Parkerthe8/31/2012

Made in a lighter style, the fully mature 1999 reveals notes of beef blood, roasted herbs, black truffles, damp earth and black currants intermixed with hints of espresso and spice box. This medium-bodied, velvety textured, lush La Mission should hold nicely for a decade in a cold cellar.

Wine Advocate

91 / 100

byRobert Parkerthe4/30/2002

The medium to full-bodied 1999 La Mission Haut Brion is beautifully complex, with notes of cherry liqueur, plums, cigar smoke, fresh tobacco, and scorched earth. This deep, elegant, yet precise wine is cut from the same mold as the 1962, 1971, 1983, and 1985. Though not a heavyweight, it is gorgeously complex, supple, and both hedonistic and intellectual. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2018.

Wine Spectator

88 / 100

byJames Sucklingthe3/31/2002

Aromas of black licorice, mineral and berries follow through to medium-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a fruity finish. Not quite as good as from barrel. Best after 2004. 5,830 cases made.

Wine Advocate

89-91 / 100

byRobert Parkerthe4/30/2001

Elegant, smoky, black currant and blueberry-like aromas reveal complexity, finesse, and purity. On the palate, the wine is harmonious, medium-bodied, concentrated, and stylish. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2020.

Wine Advocate

90-93 / 100

byRobert Parkerthe4/30/2000

A blend of 50% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Cabernet Franc, this is a multi-textured, thick, juicy, dense purple-colored 1999 with generous amounts of La Mission's chocolatey, scorched earth, black fruit character. Medium to full-bodied, with low acidity, this sexy, opulent, stunning effort will drink well for 14-15 years.