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Wine Description
The Story
Formerly named Château Laville Haut-Brion, Château La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc is produced in such extremely limited quantities that it is confined to the initiated. Its make-up almost 85% of Semillon, 14% Sauvignon Blanc and a pinch of Muscadelle ? also makes it unique. When young it possesses the characteristics of a premier Gewurztraminer. With time it trades its Alsatian color for the amber of the great Sauterne wines. Then this dry white wine expresses all the particular traits of a great syrupy Graves wine that are specific to the Semillon grown in famous terroirs.
More details
Surface area planted: 2.55 hectares (6.30 acres)
Planted grape varieties: 85% Sémillon, 14% Sauvignon Blanc, 1% Muscadelle
Fermentation in oak casks
Length of initial maturing period in oak casks: 9-12 months in 40-50% new wood
Average production: 500 to 700 cases
Vintage 1948
Bordeaux 1948: a fine vintage which had the misfortune of being located between two legendary vintages.
Weather Conditions: The weather conditions in Bordeaux during the 1948 growing season were challenging. The year began with a cold winter, followed by a late spring and a rather wet early summer. These conditions delayed budbreak and flowering, which in turn affected grape ripening. However, the weather improved in late summer, with a warm and dry period that allowed the grapes to ripen more fully. The harvest took place under favorable conditions, salvaging the vintage to some extent.
Bordeaux 1948 Reds: The red wines of Bordeaux from the 1948 vintage vary in quality. The wines typically display a ruby-red to garnet color with signs of aging, such as a brick or amber rim. On the nose, they offer a mix of dried fruits, cedar, tobacco, and earthy notes.
In the mouth, the 1948 Bordeaux reds are characterized by their medium body and soft, often resolved tannins. The acidity levels can vary, but some wines maintain a balanced structure. While the vintage does not consistently deliver the depth and concentration associated with Bordeaux's finest years, there are still well-preserved bottles that provide enjoyable drinking experiences, showcasing mature fruit and tertiary flavors.
Bordeaux 1948 Whites: The white wines of Bordeaux from the 1948 vintage also produced mixed results. These wines typically have a pale to medium gold color with aromas of honey, citrus, and hints of nuttiness. While they may lack the vibrancy and freshness of some other vintages, well-preserved bottles can still exhibit a certain charm and complexity.
Overall Impressions: The Bordeaux 1948 vintage is considered a mixed vintage in terms of quality. It is characterized by challenging weather conditions that impacted grape ripening and resulted in wines of varying degrees of maturity and complexity.
For collectors and connoisseurs, the 1948 Bordeaux wines offer a glimpse into Bordeaux's resilience in the face of adversity. Some bottles have aged gracefully, and those that have been stored well can still provide enjoyable drinking experiences. However, it is important to approach this vintage with realistic expectations, as it may not consistently offer the depth and longevity associated with Bordeaux at its best.