No doubt this vintage of La Mission-Haut-Brion was probably overlooked once the highly publicized 1982 vintage was conceived, but this wine has always been, in my opinion, one of the stars of the vintage. It showed extremely well with a big, rich, berry, smoky-scented bouquet, medium-bodied, alcoholic, deep flavors, huge fruit, and a long finish.

1981 La Mission Haut Brion offers tobacco, truffle, earth and smoky cassis scents, Soft, supple and fully mature, the wine finishes with light black cherry and cassis flavors. This will not improve. Drink up. Tasted Dec 2010

The 1981 La Mission Haut-Brion is a commendable wine for the vintage. Showing quite a lot of bricking, it has a well-defined, comparatively simple nose of sous-bois and tobacco. The palate features earthy black fruit, and though shallower than the 1982, it’s balanced with a fine bead of acidity and good precision toward the neat and tidy finish. Sure, the growing season set the limits, but this continues to drink well. Just don't approach it with lofty expectations. Tasted at a private dinner in Hong Kong.