2023 Larrivet Haut Brion
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Tasting notes
This delivers impressive depth and density, with classic notes of sweet cassis and pencil lead that unfurl slowly in the glass. On the palate, there is real precision with layer upon layer of ripe red fruit, coupled with a vein of mineral acidity that provides a distinct framework. Despite the concentration of chalky tannins, this remains very supple and elegant. 13.3% alcohol. Blend: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Coming from a mix of sandy, gravelly soils in Pessac-Léognan, the 2023 Château Larrivet Haut-Brion offers beautiful, smoky currants, tobacco, violets, and gravelly earth-like aromatics, with some classic Graves character and complexity. Based on 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Merlot and aged 14-16 months in 50% new French oak with 35% in one-year-old barrels and 15% in terracotta jars for a portion of the Merlot, it's medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a round, layered mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It's beautifully done and well worth seeking out and buying. I like it even today, yet it's going to shine with 4-5 years of bottle age and have two decades of longevity. Drink 2029-2045.
The 2023 Larrivet Haut-Brion is terrific, just as it was en primeur . A wine of polish, nuance and delineation, it dazzles from start to finish. Crushed rocks, blood orange, mint and pomegranate soar from the glass. The 2023 exudes purity and nuance, along with a compelling mix of power and finesse.
The 2023 Larrivet Haut-Brion has quite an upfront and lively nose, a little oaky although the fruit should soak that up with bottle age. The palate is medium-bodied, with forthright tannins. It feels a bit pushed in the winery, a little overextracted toward the finish where it loses delineation and clarity, with powdered dark chocolate on the aftertaste.
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.