Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 02/05/2011 Another stunning effort that performs even better out of bottle than it did from barrel, the 2008 La Chapelle de la Mission is a blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. Aromas of scorched earth, blueberries and black currants, a juicy, savory, broad mouthfeel and powerful flavors are velvety as well as opulent. Enjoy this 2008 over the next 12-15 years. The second wine now incorporates virtually everything that was in the Latour-Haut-Brion vineyard. The 2008 La Chapelle de la Mission exhibits spicy, earthy, forest floor-like notes intermixed with red currants and black fruits. It is a fresh, elegant, medium-bodied offering to enjoy during its first 10-12 years of life. (87-88+)

En primeur barrel sample. A blend of 39% Merlot, 56% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. The bouquet is fleshier with more fruit intensity than the Clarence Haut-Brion: blackberry, boysenberry, a hint of green pepper (not too much) and good definition. The palate is medium-bodied, austere on the entry but with some decent fruit in the middle. There is a slight dustiness to the tannins, chalky texture towards the finish, but there is sufficient fruit here to balance it out in the long-term. Tasted April 2009.