Château Olivier - Rouge 2014

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

This magnificent estate on the outskirts of Bordeaux has managed to preserve, in addition to its 55-hectare vineyard, a large expanse of forests and meadows. In the early 2000s, the Bethmann family undertook major renovations and entrusted the management of the estate to Laurent Lebrun. His meticulous approach and keen analysis of the terroir have led to a significant leap in the quality of the wines. The white wine, which traditionally contains a significant proportion of Sémillon, has become complex and elegant, with a well-defined personality; the 2017 vintage blew us away. The reds, now vinified to a much higher standard, express their excellent terroir with greater precision; they are expressive and energetic.

Decanter

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the wine:

L'Olivier 2014 was one of the appellation’s most pleasant surprises and is a significantly superior wine thanks to its successful aging. It boasts a fragrant bouquet of great purity, with concentrated mineral and cold-stone notes filtering through a blend of red and black fruits. The palate is well-balanced with supple tannins, a lively acidity, and well-integrated oak notes. It has more body than previous vintages, with a lovely hint of chili pepper and cedar on the finish. Ideally, it should be cellared for a few more years before being enjoyed over the next 15 to 18 years. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

About the estate:

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the wine:

Note the lovely maturity contributed by the Merlot (41%) in the 2014 red, structured by Cabernet Sauvignon from both old and younger vines, and enhanced by 4% Petit Verdot (a new addition to this vintage). The wine has taken another step up in quality.

About the estate:

In just ten years, this Graves cru classé has undergone one of the most significant transformations in the appellation. Under the leadership of Laurent Lebrun, the wines have reached an excellent standard, and the commitment of Alexandre de Bethmann, the owner, is undeniable. He has invested significant financial resources to restructure the vineyard. It must be said that this property is absolutely magnificent! Nestled in the middle of a wooded area, it sits on a gravel terroir atop a splendid, well-ventilated hilltop, ideal for producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. The latest vintages produced bear witness to this new dynamic.

Wine Spectator

James Suckling