Ch. La Mission Haut-Brion, a Cru Classe de Graves from Pessac-Leognan, is a highly regarded wine. For years, it vied with Ch Haut-Brion as to which was best from vintage to vintage. La Mission was often more floral and elegant, but both shared the rich, ripe fruit aromatics of the very best Pessac-Leognans. In 1983, Domaine Clarence Dillon S.A. acquired La Mission Haut-Brion as well. Both wines are at the pinnacle of what the appellation can produce. La Mission Haut-Brion is situated just across the road from Haut-Brion in the commune of Talence. The vineyard is planted to 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, and around 10% Cabernet Franc. The red La Mission Haut-Brion ages for an average of 22 months in 100% new French oak barrels and has the potential to age for decades. The wine is produced in less than 1,000 cases per year, making it a rare and exclusive offering.
