Critic Notes
An estate that’s on an upward trajectory, having just completed work on a new cellar, the 2018 Château Ripeau comes from just over 12 hectares of vines situated near the likes of Cheval Blanc, Figeac, and La Dominique, and is a rough blend of 67% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon that will spend 16-18 months in new French oak. It offers a deep purple color as well as terrific purity and precision in its vibrant cassis and black raspberry fruits and notes of spring flowers, spice box, and earth. Medium to full-bodied, silky, and seamless on the palate, it has building tannins, ample mid-palate depth, and good concentration, and stays light on its feet and incredibly elegant. This estate is managed by Julien Salles and gets consulting advice from Claude Gros. My money is on this 2018 being the best to date, and I suspect the best is still to come!
Score: 94-96/100Jeb Dunnuck
A real standout, the 2018 Ripeau is a powerful, explosive wine with tons of richness as well as structure. Dark raspberry jam, espresso, mint and leather emerge reluctantly. Today, the 2018 is dense and packed to the core, but it also appears to have terrific potential. Even with all of its richness, the 2018 has a lot of energy and tension. I can't wait to taste it from bottle. The 100% new oak is already quite well-integrated for a young wine at this stage of its life. Most importantly, Ripeau is positively stellar in 2018. The blend is 67% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon. Tasted two times.
Score: 92-95/100Antonio Galloni
A bright and fresh red with dark berries, such as blueberries and blackberries. Medium body, firm tannins and a crisp finish. Subtle at the finish.
Score: 92-93/100James Suckling
