Château Larrivaux, Haut-Medoc 0.75

Region/Appellation: Haut-Medoc, Bordeaux The Château is run by Berangère Tesseron, the wife of Basile Tesseron of 4th Growth Château Lafon Rochet in nearby St. Estephe. Basile is the nephew of Pauillac high flyer Alfred Tesseron of Château Pontet Canet fame. Larrivaux has been in existence since the late 16th century, and has been run by the women of the family throughout the generations. The wine has a particular degree of finesse and elegance, which could lead some to call it feminine, which just makes sense, considering the château’s history. Grape varieties: Merlot 62 %, Cabernet Sauvignon 25%, Cabernet Franc 10 %, Petit verdot 3 % Tasting notes: A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, this has a fine crisp dark brambly nose: good definition with hints of black olive tapenade and a touch of smoke. The palate is medium-bodied with a lovely, slightly “digestif” entry, good acidity, very well balanced with and fine, quite racy finish. Very fine. - Neal Martin : 89-91/100

France