Fabulous nose of spice, mushrooms, blueberries and blackberries follows through to a full body, with firm tannins and a silky tannins. This is so savory and beautiful. Best second wine ever from La Mission.

Made of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc, the 2010 La Chapelle de la Mission Haut-Brion is deep garnet colored and has opulent scents of baked raspberries, Black Forest cake and blueberry tart with hints of star anise, prunes and spice cake. Full-bodied, rich and seductive in the mouth, the palate has a solid frame of firm, grainy tannins and bold freshness, finishing long and mineral laced.

Firm and tannic, while there are also sweet berry fruits and black currant flavors. The acidity is important.

Deliciously tarry from the start, with a cauldron of steeped blackberry, boysenberry and pastis-soaked plum fruit melded to well-roasted apple wood and graphite notes. Intense and grippy, showing purity and polish.