1986 La Mission Haut Brion
By Chateau La Mission Haut Brion
1986 La Mission Haut Brion from Chateau La Mission Haut Brion, Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux
In the constellation of star-studded Bordeaux vintages, the 1986 La Mission Haut Brion from Chateau La Mission Haut Brion illuminates the firmament with its celestial composure and longevity. As a venerated wine critic with decades of narratives woven into the fabric of wine legacy, I approach each glass as both a time capsule and a telescope peering into the chronicles of terroir and talent.
The Vintage's Tapestry: Weaving Complexity with Grace
The year 1986 stood out in Pessac-Leognan for its climatic equilibrium, which heralded a harvest generous both in quality and quantity. Specifically, for the 1986 La Mission Haut Brion, this equanimity translated into an elixir exhibiting both remarkable structure and a delicate ballet of nuanced flavours.
The weight of history is palpably felt in each bottle; autumn berries meld with truffles and tobacco in an opulent display that only time could choreograph. The ethos of Chateau La Mission Haut Brion is captured within these vestiges of liquid history – a testament to meticulous viniculture and astute aging.
An Oenophile's Dream: Investing in Liquid Artistry
The astute investor will perceive in the 1986 vintage from Chateau La Mission Haut Brion not merely a beverage but an asset, matured to near perfection. Its evolving narrative underlines the continuous appreciation mirrored in both palate and price. If there ever were a testament to the enduring legacy of Bordeaux’s nobility, it is encapsulated here.
I often impart that investing in wine is akin to investing in art, and the 1986 La Mission Haut Brion is indeed comparable to a masterwork – its value transcending temporal confines while conjuring sensorial delight.
To sip on this Bordeaux is to engage with history; a harmonious symphony orchestrated by the vintage’s stellar conditions. For oenophiles seeking depth, complexity, and investment worthiness, this vintage stands out as one of serendipitous creation – a beacon amongst the vast sea of fine wines.
In summary, reflecting on this prestigious vintage prompts an acknowledgement of its brilliance shaped by time – making the 1986 La Mission Haut Brion from Chateau La Mission Haut Brion an exquisite choice for discerning collectors and investors alike.
Market price (GBP)
£2,840.00
12x75cl
Highest score
89
POP score
315.56
Scores and tasting notes
Dark plum/ruby with a dusty, earthy, cigar box-scented nose, this somewhat austere, medium-bodied La Mission-Haut-Brion shows plenty of tannin in a somewhat muscular style without the charm and seductiveness of the ripest years. Nevertheless, the aromatics are there, and the wine still tastes young, but I suspect there will always be a certain austerity to La Mission Haut-Brion's 1986. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2016. Last tasted, 9/02.
Robert Parker Jr - Bordeaux Book, 3rd Edition
Tasted at the evening dinner in Southwold. I have never been totally convinced by the Mission '86. It has a very deep colour, typical of the vintage. The nose seems a little 'muddled', lacking the clarity that this estate usually provides. There are sullen black fruit, black olive and tertiary aromas. The palate is muscular and masculine, with dense, solid black fruit, aggressive tannins and a tobacco dominated finish. To repeat what I said back in 2008, it is a rather charmless La Mission Haut-Brion and I would perhaps rather than 1991. Tasted January 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2012