2020 La Chapelle de La Mission Haut-Brion Pessac-Leognan

Trust us, you don’t want to let this wine slip through your fingers. From a vintage already fast becoming Bordeaux legend, La Chapelle de La Mission Haut-Brion sings with seductive notes of cedar, tobacco, and rich baking spices. It’s the kind of wine that’s hard to put down now—and impossible not to cherish years from now. This exceptional bottle comes from the sister estate just down the road from the unrivaled first growth Chateau Haut-Brion, nestled in the prestigious Pessac-Léognan appellation.

Nestled in the prestigious Pessac-Léognan appellation, this vineyard’s roots trace back to the 16th century. Its origins intertwine with the Bordeaux aristocracy — most notably the Lestonnac family and Jean de Pontac, a visionary whose legacy shaped some of the region’s greatest vineyards, including the legendary Haut-Brion.

The estate’s unique history took a fascinating turn when it became the property of the Congregation of the Lazarists — a Catholic missionary order — lending it the name “La Mission.” This religious stewardship, marked by the construction of a chapel within the vineyards, echoes through the wine’s noble character to this day.

Over centuries, La Mission Haut-Brion navigated the tides of history — from its repossession during the French Revolution to stewardship by the Chiapelle family, early American proprietors versed in Bordeaux’s finest trades, and later the transformative Woltner family. The Woltners ushered in the modern era of winemaking here, introducing stainless steel tanks and pioneering innovations that set new standards.

In 1983, the estate found a visionary new custodian in Domaine Clarence Dillon, owners of neighboring Chateau Haut-Brion. Under their stewardship, the vineyards were replanted, the winemaking facilities modernized, and the estate elevated to new heights of excellence.

This meticulous care and storied heritage are what make La Chapelle de La Mission Haut-Brion so exceptional. The second label receives the same precision in vineyard management and craftsmanship as the flagship wine—which recently earned an iconic 100-point score. With the same expert team, terroir, and unwavering dedication, every bottle of La Chapelle carries the estate’s signature balance of power, elegance, and age-worthy complexity.

Produced in limited quantities, this second wine offers a captivating gateway into the world of Chateau La Mission Haut-Brion. Its name pays homage to the chapel nestled within the estate—built by the Lazarist priests in 1698.

2020 was a great year for Bordeaux. Vinous Media blessed this year with a 97-point review and said, "Two thousand-twenty is an exceptional vintage for Bordeaux, certainly the best in the 2018-2020 trilogy. Quality is very, very high."

Aging: In French oak barrels (60% new)