I loved the second wine, the 2005 La Chapelle de la Mission (2,000 cases produced). Sweet, smoky, black cherry, plum, and earthy characteristics are found in this velvety textured, fleshy effort. Similar to its bigger sibling, but softer and more accessible, it will offer delectable consumption over the next 12-15 years. The rivalry between the two great Pessac-Leognan estates of Haut-Brion and La Mission-Haut-Brion continues despite the fact that since 1983, both wines have been made by the same winemaking team. Jean-Bernard Delmas has moved fifty miles north to Montrose, but his son, Jean-Philippe, has produced both wines following the 2003 vintage. La Mission is obviously made in a different style than Haut-Brion. It will never have as much nuance and nobility aromatically. It does possess more muscle, concentration, and opulence than Haut-Brion, but both offer prodigious styles of wine.

A sexy second wine, the 2005 La Chapelle is broad and savory, with velvety tannins. It offers a deep ruby plum/purple color followed by loads of charcoal, sweet black cherry and cassis fruit, and a medium to full-bodied, lush texture. It is drinking well now and should do so for at least another decade or more.

Tasted blind. Blackish crimson. Not much nose. Big and round on the palate. Definitely chewy on the end still. Powdery, dusty end. (JR)