Château La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc 2025

Chateau La Mission Haut-Brion sits in Pessac-Leognan, in the northern Graves district of Bordeaux, a short distance from the city. The white is a blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grown on the deep gravel mounds that define the appellation. Those stones store the day's heat and release it overnight, which aids ripening in a maritime climate, while the poor soil drives roots deep for water and lends the wine its smoky, mineral edge. Semillon brings weight, waxy texture and ageing capacity, and Sauvignon Blanc adds citrus lift and aromatic drive. The wine is fermented and aged around thirteen months in barrel, where lees contact and stirring release mannoproteins that build texture, and the slow oxygen exchange through the oak adds structure and a subtle toast without masking the fruit. The colour is bright pale gold. The nose is layered, with white flowers, lilac, white peach and citrus over an exotic hint of mango and a flinty undertone. The palate is broad and structured, the oak and lees weight held in line by fresh acidity, closing long and mineral. Serve at 11 to 13 degrees in a large glass.