2017 Larrivet Haut Brion
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Tasting notes
A solid red with almost all cabernet sauvignon this year. Medium to full body, layered and intense. Shows length.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Deep crimson with smudgy rim. Lifted, lightly leafy cassis on the nose. Lots of pencil lead. On the palate, the tannins dominate, dry but quite thick. Fresh and creamy on the finish but lacking some freshness. (JH)
The 2017 Larrivet Haut-Brion, picked 13 to 28 September with 13.6° alcohol, has a more intense bouquet than its peers with blackberry, wild strawberry and pencil lead. The palate is medium bodied and feels strict and linear in the mouth, almost Pauillac in style. There is plenty of freshness in situ although it feels serious and just needs more fruitétowards the finish. I appreciate the style of this Larrivet that may turn out to be one of the more cerebral wines from the appellation, though it is not necessarily one of its most exciting.
The 2017 Larrivet Haut-Brion is magnificent. Frost took out a large portion of the château's parcels. As a result, the wine is a highly unusual blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot. In the glass, the 2017 is rich, sumptuous and explosive, with serious density to match its flamboyant personality. A highly unusual wine, the 2017 has so much to offer. Wow! Now, for the bad news. Production is down 75%. Tasted two times.
About the producer
Known as La Rivette prior to the late 19th century, this property is owned by the Gervoson family (best known for the Bonne Maman brand). They farm 75 hectares, with around seven of those dedicated to white grapes.