The 2016 Larrivet Haut Brion is a captivating Bordeaux Blend from the prestigious Pessac Leognan sub-region of Bordeaux, France. This red wine is a true gem, showcasing the exceptional quality and elegance that the region is renowned for.
In the glass, the wine displays a deep garnet-purple color, hinting at its intensity and concentration. The nose is immediately alluring, with earthy aromas that intertwine with herbal and leafy notes. As the wine opens up, a dark-berry thread emerges, adding depth and complexity to the bouquet.
On the palate, the 2016 Larrivet Haut Brion truly shines. It boasts great depth and drive, with a bright array of juicy red and darker berries dancing on the taste buds. The plush, ripe tannins provide a luxurious mouthfeel, further enhancing the wine's overall appeal. This is a wine that is beautifully balanced and impeccably crafted, showcasing the skill and expertise of the producer.
Several wine experts have praised the 2016 Larrivet Haut Brion for its exceptional qualities. James Suckling awarded it an impressive score of 94 points, describing it as "very attractive" with earthy complexity and a bright array of berries. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also lauded the wine, giving it a score of 92 points and noting its elegant structure and freshness. Jeb Dunnuck was equally impressed, scoring it 93 points and highlighting its complex notes of red and black fruits, smoke tobacco, incense, and cedar.
Decanter magazine also recognized the brilliance of this vintage, awarding it a score of 94 points and stating that it is "on a different level in terms of depth and structure." Wine Enthusiast, in their barrel sample review, praised the ripe and velvety tannins, predicting that the wine will reach its peak after 2027.
Overall, the 2016 Larrivet Haut Brion is a wine of exceptional quality and character. It is a true representation of the best that Bordeaux has to offer, with its elegance, depth, and balance. This is a wine that will undoubtedly impress any wine lover and will continue to evolve and improve with age.