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Tasting notes
The 2025 Ripeau was cropped around 25 hl/ha. It has a decent nose with blackberry, boysenberry and violet scents, though it lacks a little personality compared with some older vintages. The palate is medium-bodied, with pliant tannins, and a keen line of acidity that at least counterbalances the richness and density, the finish showing the delineation I wish were conveyed by the aromatics. It may improve during barrel maturation, so watch this space.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Deep purple-hued, the 2025 Château Ripeau comes from deeper clay soils behind Cheval Blanc, not far from Pomerol, and is a blend of 65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon that's being raised 18 months in 50% new barrels. Cassis, liquid violets, graphite, blueberries, and smoky nuances all define the aromatics, and on the palate, it's fleshy and medium to full-bodied, with supple, polished tannins and outstanding length. I love its purity, and it's a supple, pleasure-bent beauty in the vintage.
The 2025 Ripeau has a lot to offer. Inky blue/purplish fruit, lavender, mocha, licorice and cinnamon are very nicely delineated. Medium in body, with superb depth and plenty of persistence, Ripeau is impeccably done. It's one of the very pleasant surprises of the year.