The Estate
Château Larrivet Haut-Brion, located in Léognan within the Pessac-Léognan appellation, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. It was originally known as Château de Canolle before adopting its current name in 1874. Long overshadowed by the classified growths of Graves, the estate gradually gained recognition, especially after being acquired in 1987 by the Gervoson family, who brought new energy by modernizing the facilities and revitalizing the vineyard.
The vineyard spans over 70 hectares, planted on a mix of gravel, sand, and clay soils typical of the Graves region. This terroir, combined with the classic Bordeaux grape varieties (mostly Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc for reds, and Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon for whites), gives the wines great complexity. The reds are known for their balanced structure and aromas of dark fruit and spices, while the whites are prized for their freshness and finesse.
Today, Château Larrivet Haut-Brion is known for its ongoing pursuit of quality and innovation, led by Bruno Lemoine. The estate stands out with bold experiments such as aging wine in amphorae or submerged barrels, while staying true to the classic identity of Pessac-Léognan wines. Larrivet Haut-Brion has established itself as a reliable name in the appellation, appreciated by both enthusiasts and critics for its elegant and approachable style.
The Wine
Surface: 61 ha
Soil type: Deep gravel with clay matrix
Average age of the vines: 35 yo
Harvest: Manual at perfect ripeness, transport of the harvest in crates, sorting on a table before destemming, then optical sorting.
Tasting
Dark ruby color. Great aromatic complexity with notes of ripe fruits, spices, licorice, and smoke. The palate is full, straight, built for length, with a beautiful balance between fleshy volume and silky tannins. A great wine for aging.