Great balance, depth and complexity. Perhaps near its peak. Not falling apart yet but it seems the fruit may be beginning to fade. So elegant and complex. — a month ago
This bottle of 1982 Gruaud-Larose came direct from the château cellars. It is just pure joy on the nose with fabulous scents of black fruit, hung game (less so than previous bottles), clove and a faint aroma of a stately home. It manages to offer both ample fruit and life-affirming complexity. The palate has aged little since I last tasted it; there's more red fruit here, with freshly rolled tobacco, cedar and a touch more spiciness on the finish than previous tastings, with a sweet yet structured finish. This may well represent the finest bottle that I have encountered. (Neal Martin, Vinous, January 2023) — a day ago
The 1982 vintage of Château La Mission Haut Brion is one of my all-time favourites from this estate. Medium to deep garnet in colour, the nose offers a mesmerizing array of dried roses and black fruits, cigar box, bay leaf, leather, earth and a dash of blackcurrant pastilles. The dense and powerful palate knocks it out of the park with a full body, delicate savoury notes, spices and a core of very concentrated dried black fruits. The long and persistent finish confirms an outstanding wine, flirting with perfection. Drink now — 3 months ago
MRM
Still plenty of tannins. Full of flavour and nose, even if it’s supposedly past it’s drinking window. Demi-size. — 7 days ago