Larrivet Haut-Brion
The story of Larrivet took us to the 1800s when the original name of the estate was La Rivette. In 1874, the estate began calling itself Chateau Haut Brion Larrivet by the new owner, Ernest Laurent. Current owners Philippe and Christine Gervoson acquired the estate in 1987.
Larrivet Haut-Brion Wines
Chateau Larrivet Haut Brion wines are probably the best known of all the unclassified wineries in the appellation. Although their red wines are more known than whites, we are happy we chose to taste Less Hauts de Larrivet Haut-Brion 2016.
To produce the white Bordeaux wine of Chateau Larrivet Haut Brion, the grapes are collected and pressed in a whole-cluster form. Vinification takes place in 100% new French oak barrels. There is no malolactic fermentation. The white wines are aged on their lees in 100% new oak for about 12 months prior to the bottling.
Less Hauts de Larrivet Haut-Brion 2016
Less Hauts de Larrivet Haut-Brion 2016 is a blend of 90% Sauvignon Blanc, 5% Sémillon and 5% Sauvignon Gris.
This nicely aromatic white blend offers scents of tangerine, lemon, white flowers, wet stones, and pineapple. Medium-bodied, freshly acidic, without any alcoholic heat, it delivers flavors of fresh ripe lemon, cantaloupe (which also mirrors the nose), white nectarine, bee pollen, and a hint of spiciness.
Solid in the middle and medium in length on the back end, this is an enjoyable, well-priced Bordeaux white that would pair beautifully with just about any type of light fare. Try pairing it with scallops, Oyster Rockafeller, or poached fish.
A fantastic finish driven by lemon and pineapple suggests we would even enjoy it without food.
We think it is ready to drink now, however, if we had another bottle we would keep it to taste again in a year.