Very powerful and tannic yet salty and savory. Full body, dense and chewy yet polished and bright. Great second wine from La Mission. Only 30% merlot.

Composed of 30% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, the medium garnet-purple colored 2015 La Chapelle de la Mission Haut-Brion opens with an earthy nose of mossy bark, fragrant soil and fallen leaves over a core of red and black currants, bay leaves and menthol plus a waft of violets. Medium to full-bodied, it has compelling restraint and elegance with soft tannins and great freshness, finishing on a mineral note. Possessing the spirit and many of the signature hallmarks of its big brother, this second wine of La Mission Haut-Brion is certainly nothing to sneeze at!

Lush, offering gorgeous waves of plum sauce, cassis and steeped raspberry and blackberry fruit flavors that are infused with black tea, roasted apple wood and melted black licorice. The long finish lets everything cruise through, with a seamless feel. Almost approachable because of the polish, but there's absolutely no rush here. A jaw-dropping display of powerfully rendered fruit. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

Lots of currants, spices and fresh herbs follow through to a full body that's tight and silky. Hints of cream and vanilla. Savory and salty. Shows structure and intensity as the second wine of La Mission.

There's potential for a delicious wine here, with its red fruits and bright fresh character. It takes time to show the fine structure that is elegant in dusty tannins and light spice. The fruits are all there making this a real second wine.