Introduction
Château Larrivet Haut-Brion Pessac-Léognan 2016 is a remarkable red wine that stands as a testament to the elegant power and distinctive terroir of its esteemed Bordeaux appellation. Located within the Graves region, Pessac-Léognan is celebrated for its gravelly soils, which impart a unique minerality and finesse to its Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot-dominant blends. Château Larrivet Haut-Brion, a historic estate with a long lineage, has undergone significant revitalization under its current ownership, committing to precision viticulture and modern winemaking to express the full potential of its vineyards. The 2016 vintage in Bordeaux was highly lauded, producing wines with exceptional freshness, concentration, and a harmonious balance, positioning this particular Château Larrivet Haut-Brion as a classic example of its appellation’s excellence and a wine with considerable aging potential.
Character Description
The Château Larrivet Haut-Brion Pessac-Léognan 2016 displays a deep, brilliant ruby-purple hue, indicative of its youth and concentration. It offers an intensely aromatic and evolving bouquet of ripe dark fruits—blackcurrant, cassis, and wild plum—elegantly interwoven with complex notes of cedar, tobacco leaf, graphite, and a subtle hint of savory spice from its careful oak aging. On the palate, it delivers a full-bodied and beautifully structured texture, with concentrated dark fruit and earthy-mineral flavors mirroring the nose. It’s supported by firm, yet beautifully refined tannins that provide excellent backbone and a long, seamless finish, balanced by a vibrant, fresh acidity that ensures liveliness and remarkable precision. The finish is persistent, nuanced, and gracefully aromatic, leaving a lingering impression of dark fruit, classic Bordeaux complexity, and profound depth.
Perfect Pairings
This distinguished Pessac-Léognan is an exceptional partner for classic French cuisine and other robust, flavorful dishes. It pairs beautifully with roasted game meats, such as venison or wild boar, grilled beef tenderloin, or slow-cooked lamb shoulder. Its structured tannins and complex savory notes also make it an ideal accompaniment to truffle-infused dishes, rich stews, and a variety of aged, firm cheeses like Comté, Gruyère, or mature Cheddar. The wine’s elegance and potential for evolution make it a fantastic choice for a formal dinner, a special celebration, or for those who appreciate the nuanced beauty and age-worthiness of a top-tier Left Bank Bordeaux. Decanting for at least an hour is highly recommended to allow its full expression.
About the Winery
Château Larrivet Haut-Brion is a historic estate situated in the heart of the Pessac-Léognan appellation. With origins dating back to the 19th century, the property has seen significant evolution, particularly since its acquisition by the Gervoson family in 1987. Under their stewardship, substantial investments have been made in modernizing the winery and meticulously improving vineyard management. Their philosophy centers on expressing the unique gravelly terroir of their vineyards, through precise viticulture, sustainable practices, and a balanced approach to winemaking that respects both tradition and innovation. They aim to produce wines that are a true reflection of their origin: elegant, complex, and capable of graceful aging. Château Larrivet Haut-Brion is a true representation of the Gervoson family’s dedication to quality and their continuous pursuit of excellence in Bordeaux.
