2010 Haut-Riot "Cuvée Juliette" Bordeaux

Château Haut Riot belongs to the Latorse family; this is their fourth generation of winemaking. The estate has a total of 110 hectares and is one of the only petits châteaux to have the famous Michel Rolland as consultant. Haut Riot is one of the few estates that is well located in the Entre Deux Mers: It is situated on a southern-exposure hill, with a lot of clay in the soil. The terroir is great and allows this property to make high quality wines every year. Cuvée Juliette (named for the estate owner’s daughter so obviously a wine that is close to the heart) is a selection of the best parcels of vineyards. The wine combines richness and concentration with a sense of elegance and finesse. Superb layers of currant and berry fruit combine with sage and cedar. This wine is a deliciously juicy style of Cabernet that is made to be enjoyed over the next five years. It has an inviting nose of dark tarry fruit. It is medium to full on the palate, with lovely precision reminiscent of the great vintage. The palate is filled with juicy black fruits, especially blackcurrant. It has lovely intensity and impeccable balance. The finish is easy and supple. A great value in Bordeaux. It is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Franc. [Clyde Beffa]