La Chapelle de La Mission Haut-Brion, Pessac-Léognan, FR, 2022

The 2022 La Chapelle De La Mission Haut-Brion is based on 56% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc. It's a gorgeous wine in its own right and has terrific cherry and darker, red currant-like fruit as well as a beautifully pure, medium to full-bodied, elegant style on the palate. There's plenty of classic Pessac smoky, gravelly, tobacco-like nuances, and it has soft tannins, beautiful overall balance, and outstanding length. This hit 14% alcohol with a pH of 3.88.