Bright red plum, pomegranate, spices, graphite and smoke emerge from the 2014 La Chapelle de La Mission Haut-Brion, a bold, intense wine loaded with class and pedigree. Rich, ample and broad on the palate, the 2014 delivers tons of intensity, especially at this level. A final burst of expressive red fruit, iron and smoke punctuates a super-expressive finish buffered by veins of acidity and minerality that confer freshness. The higher than usual percentage of Cabernet Franc adds to the wine's aromatic intrigue. This is a superb second wine. The blend is 45% Merlot, 31% Cabernet Franc and 24% Cabernet Sauvignon.

The 2014 La Chapelle de la Mission Haut Brion has a lightness of touch on the nose, very subtle and understated with pretty blackberry, bilberry and cassis scents gently unfolding in the glass, yet never getting too carried away. The palate is medium-bodied with tobacco-tinged black fruit on the entry. This has certainly gained more weight since I tasted it from barrel, exerting more presence in the mouth, although the finish just lacks a little complexity and seems rudimentary when compared to the Grand Vin. Drink now and over the next 6-8 years.

Tasted blind. Mid garnet. Ripe, tangy, evolved dark-red fruits. Juicy at the core, surrounded by firm but smooth tannins. Cabernet character showing very well. (JH)

45% Merlot, 31% Cabernet Franc, 24% Cabernet Sauvignon. Mid crimson and medium weight. Solid bright fruit with some fine, well-managed tannins but very much a second wine. Chewy finish and altogether a bit lightweight and lacking any opulence. (JR)