2017 Larrivet Haut Brion
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Tasting notes
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 Larrivet Haut-Brion leaps with kirsch, warm blueberries and black plums plus wafts of earth, herbs and cedar and a touch of tar. Medium-bodied, the palate is fine, fresh and delicately expressive, finishing long and savory.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The 2017 Larrivet Haut-Brion is a seriously impressive wine. Bold, rich and intense, the 2017 exudes tremendous depth and intensity. Following its bottling, the 2017 is very tannic and closed, but the depth and persistence it showed from bottle are still very much in evidence. The 2017 clearly needs time in bottle to be at its best, but it is still quite good. Readers should expect a wine of real energy and explosive power. Tasted two times.
The 2017 Chateau Larrivet Haut-Brion also showed nicely, with a floral, spicy, savory style as well as medium-bodied richness and depth, plenty of chocolately dark fruits, ripe tannins, and a seamless, balanced, elegant style. I'd happily drink bottles over the coming decade or more. This is based off 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, and the balance Merlot, brought up mostly in used barrels.
The 2017 Larrivet Haut-Brion has a vibrant and detailed bouquet with plenty of tertiary red berry fruit mixed with tobacco and light cedar aromas. I admire the focus here. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, fresh on the entry with good acidity. It delivers a finely detailed, peppery finish that is just quintessentially Graves/Pessac. Excellent.
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.