1996 Laville Haut Brion
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Tasting notes
Laville's 1996 is one of the lighter-styled efforts from this estate in the nineties. Nevertheless, it has managed to cram gorgeous levels of complexity and elegance into a citrusy, melony, richly fruity format. While it does not possess the weight and body of such blockbuster vintages as 1994, it is impressive. There is good acidity, and the wine comes across as clean, crisp, and stylish in an understated, restrained manner. This wine should drink well for 12-15+ years. Last tasted 11/97
Critic scores
Average Score
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
A mouthful for a white. Very woody, with toasted oak and vanilla aromas and hints of fruit, but it's concentrated. Full-bodied, with lemon and apple flavors and a fresh coconut aftertaste. Needs time to develop. Best from 2000 through 2004. James Suckling,Wine Spectator 1999
Laville's 1996 is one of the lighter-styled efforts from this estate in the nineties. Nevertheless, it has managed to cram gorgeous levels of complexity and elegance into a citrusy, melony, richly fruity format. While it does not possess the weight and body of such blockbuster vintages as 1994, it is impressive. There is good acidity, and the wine comes across as clean, crisp, and stylish in an understated, restrained manner. This wine should drink well for 12-15+ years. Last tasted 11/97 Jan 1998, www.robertparker.com
Fatter, more exotic aromas of hay, minerals, spice and honey; slightly dulled today by some sulfur. Rich and ripe; fatter and considerably longer than the '97. Has the glyceral texture of semillon, but also possesses a firm citric spine.
About the producer
Ch. la Mission Haut-Brion – sister estate of Ch. Haut-Brion and part of the Clarence Dillon stable – is one of the greatest estates in all of Bordeaux. Based in Pessac-Léognan but not officially classified, it produces outstanding red and white wines.