2003
Château La Mission Haut-Brion Rouge
tasting notes
It has an impressive intensity and complexity of fragrances.
The nose is very ripe with aromas of red berries, blackberries and licorice.
The start in the mouth is soft but very soon an imposing structure of tannin appears.
They are a powerful but harmonious presence. These tannins are ripe but not aggressive.
The finish is glorious. The length of this wine is unbelievably persistent.
It needs time and then will surely evolve into a great La Mission.
The weather
2003 was without a doubt a very exceptional year in terms of the weather. Although it did not beat the record for lowest rainfall, attained in 1961 (258 mm) for the period April to September inclusive, 2003 comes immediately afterwards with 263 mm. However, in terms of temperature, all the records were broken. Accumulated average daily temperatures for the above period were around 3,161, with the hottest year (1997) until then reaching 3,494, but for 2003 the figure was 3,696; while the average for very hot days above 30°C/86°F is 16, there were 49 in 2003, more than three times as many!
A few figures
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Harvest Dates
From August 19th to September 12th
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Blend
Merlot: 39 %
Cabernet Sauvignon: 52%
Cabernet Franc: 9 %
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New barrels
69%
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Alcohol
13%
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Bottling date
From April 15th to 20th 2005
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