Mission Haut Brion Pessac Leognan 2003

Category:
 
Red Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Red Wines
Producer:
 
Mission Haut Brion
Label Name:
 
Pessac Leognan
Vintage:
 
2003
Country:
 
France
Region:
 
Pessac-Léognan (Graves), Bordeaux
Volume:
 
750ml
ABV:
 
13%
Grape(s):
 
Cabernet Sauvignon 52%, Merlot 39%, Cabernet Franc 9%.
Acidity:
 
2
Tannins:
 
4
Body:
 
5
Length:
 
5
Aroma Intensity:
 
4
Best Temperature:
 
16-18°C

Awards/Ratings
James Suckling 95; Wine Spectator 94; Wine Enthusiast 94; Robert Parker (Wine Advocate) 93; critics note long aging potential and maturity window (many sources list ready to drink from c. 2015 with long cellaring to 2040s)

Tasting Note
Ripe blackcurrant and black cherry with cedar, tobacco, sous-bois and sweet licorice. Full-bodied, firm muscular tannins, earthy mushroom notes and a long, savory finish.

Food Pairing
Roast lamb, beef short ribs, game birds, mushroom risotto; Asian: Peking duck, char siu (barbecue pork), Korean BBQ beef, beef rendang, rich braised dishes.

Production Method
Traditional Bordeaux red vinification: fermentation in temperature‑controlled vats, followed by élevage in French oak barrels (approx. 70% new) for 12–18 months; bottled after careful selection and aging.

Vineyard Info
Historic estate founded by the Lazarists; Cru Classé in Graves. Owned by Domaine Clarence Dillon since 1983, flagship property producing classic Pessac‑Léognan reds.