La Mission Haut Brion 1994 (Magnum)

"This vintage again demonstrates what an extraordinary terroir La Mission-Haut-Brion possesses. It was not an easy year, with rain, flowering issues and uncooperative weather in the critical months of August and September, but the vineyard's superb drainage and La Mission's ability to produce fascinating aromatics even in difficult vintages triumphs again. Classic Graves aromas of charcoal, scorched earth, red and black fruits, truffles, graphite and melted tar emerge from this dark garnet/plum-colored 1994. In the mouth, there is some angularity and rustic tannins remaining, but they are not out of balance. With medium to full body as well as more depth than many of its peers, the wine appears to be close to full maturity. However, with this level of acidity and tannin, it is not likely to fall apart any time soon. Anticipated maturity: now-2025" - 92/100, Robert Parker JR, RobertParker.com, Aug 2012

"Fully mature, this has morphed into an elegant, soft, refined, lighter style of La Mission Haut Brion. Everything has moved to the subtle side. The wine is not overly complex, but the sweet notes of cassis, cherry and cigar wrapper were there, just to a lighter degree. The tannins have completely melted away. The soft finish is on the short side. The wine is now, disarmingly easy to drink. If you have any of this in your cellar, you need to be popping those corks, before the remaining fruit fades away. Pop and pour, or a short, 20 minute decant is all this needs." - 90/100, The Wine Cellar Insider, Mar 2018