1988 Château La Mission Haut-Brion (Laville) Blanc

Although lacking the personality of the blockbuster 1989, the 1988 is a beautifully made, waxy, melon-scented wine with a touch of herbs and smoky oak. It has better acidity and a more delineated personality than the 1989, but not the latter vintage's flamboyant character. Nevertheless, this should turn out to be an extremely long-lived Laville, and while it may not hit the heights of hedonism that the 1989 will, it still offers plenty of flavor in a more polite and civilized fashion. Anticipated maturity: 1995-2008. Last tasted, 12/92.