2009 Château La Mission Haut-Brion

100 POINTS: An absolute legendary wine that ranks with the handful of truly monumental wines of the past 100 years or so is the 2009 Château La Mission Haut-Brion, which is close to an even split of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with a splash (6%) of Cabernet Franc. This beauty hit over 15% alcohol and should be a nail in the coffin to all the anti-alcohol fear mongering that has gone over the past 10-15 years. Still youthfully ruby-hued, with incredible notes of ripe currants, mulled cherries, scorched earth, tobacco, and even a hint of truffly earth, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, seamless, multi-dimensional mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a finish that just won't quit. Opulent, decadent, yet without any sensation of weight or heaviness, this magical Pessac can be enjoyed any time over the coming 30-40 years, and I have no doubt it will offer pleasure even beyond that.