2005 La Riviere
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Tasting notes
The 2005 de La Rivière is a gorgeous wine. Although a bit strict for a Merlot-based wine, de La Rivière impresses with its energy and drive. Lavender, pipe tobacco, menthol, spice and leather give the 2005 quite a bit of savory nuance to play off its dark blue/purplish fruit. There's certainly plenty to like here. The style is a bit linear for Fronsac in 2005, but in exchange the wine offers good persistence.
Critic scores
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Jancis Robinson MW
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
There are no fewer than four bottlings from this proprietor, including the fancy Aria. This is the regular bottling. Big and bloody and quite dramatic. Lots of ripe fruit upfront and very charming. Nothing overdone and a really admirable freshness, vaguely reminiscent of Cabernet Franc. Not long term but very pleasant drinking. (JR)