TN: Bdx group does LMHB at Bobby Van's

A smaller contingent of our Bordeaux group than usual gathered at Bobby Van?s in Midtown East for a dinner with some La Mission Haut Brion Tuesday.

Chartogne-Taillet ?Heurtebise? This is Blanc de Blancs I think? Certainly crisp, bright, and lively. Perfect way to be greeted (thanks Diane). I really enjoyed this. A-/B+

1981 Ch. La Mission Haut Brion Some thought this tired, I thought fully mature and quiet, but elegant and long. Not supercomplex, but nice if quiet cassis and cigarbox. Holds up well. B+/B

1985 Ch. La Mission Haut Brion I thought this was lovely, one person thought ?too soft? but if that is soft I?ll take soft all day. Blackcurrant, black plum, tobacco and cedar, long. A-

1986 Ch. La Mission Haut Brion I thought this has potential, but still a bit hard and austere - others liked more. Cassis, floral notes. B+

1996 Ch. La Mission Haut Brion Structured and full, needs time, but rich.,B+/A-

1998 Ch. La Mission Haut Brion Another one in need of time, but rich and balanced, long. A-/B+

1999 Ch. La Mission Haut Brion Sweet and a bit oaky, not very Bordeaux but I thought would be a good ringer in a lineup of better 90s CalCabs. B+/B

2001 Ch. La Mission Haut Brion Pretty oaky now, but complex and full, some tannin but good acid balanced, rich dark fruits. B+/A-

2003 Ch. La Mission Haut Brion Wow, this is way more 2003 than LMHB. Kirsch and cassis, heady, a little volatile. C+

Group voting

1985 19 points 1986 9 points 1996 9 points 1998 4 points 2001 1 point

Great group, good fun Grade disclaimer: I'm a very easy grader, basically A is an excellent wine, B a good wine, C drinkable. Anything below C means I wouldn't drink at a party where it was only choice.Furthermore, I offer no promises of objectivity, accuracy, and certainly not of consistency.