2008 Larrivet Haut Brion
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Tasting notes
The 2008 Larrivet Haut-Brion, which has been inconsistent over the years, feels a little overdone on the nose and perhaps suffers just a tad too much maceration? With time blackberry, boysenberry and seaweed-like aromas develop in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannin, quite saline in the mouth with a brisk, lightly spiced, quite grippy finish that fortunately retains decent balance. I would actually afford this Pessac-Léognan another year or two in bottle just to let the aromatics settle. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners’ 10-Year On tasting.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Tasted blind. Blackish ruby. Very slightly sweaty on the nose. A bit savoury with a hint of meat extract but not bad. Just a bit lacking freshness. (JR)
Full medium ruby. Cassis, burning tobacco and a whiff of leather on the somewhat decadent, high-toned nose. Sweet, fat and broad, with moderate nuance but a very pliant texture to the dark berry, mocha and leather flavors. With its compelling early sweetness and fine dusting of tannins, this wine can be enjoyed already.
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.