Chateau Olivier - Pessac Leognan Rouge 2020
Price: $39.96
| Producer | Chateau Olivier |
| Country | France |
| Region | Bordeaux |
| Subregion | Pessac Leognan |
| Varietal | Bordeaux Blend |
| Vintage | 2020 |
| Sku | 794436 |
| Size | 750ml |
Chateau Olivier is located almost entirely within Pessac-Leognan. While a modest version of one, the Chateau is a ‘proper castle’ as Clive Coates describes it with all the defensive trappings one might expect to see. It once even had a bona fide moat surrounding it.
Chateau Olivier is unique as its 60ha of vineyards is only a small portion of the 230ha estate. The surrounding area stands as a forest which Chateau Olivier regards as a “green lung” in the city (the winery is located just on the southwest edge of the city of Bordeaux). Though the Chateau dates to early medieval times and has produced wine for some time, it’s only relatively recently that the Chateau has been recognized as ‘good.’ 1987 was the year that Jean-Jacques de Bethmann bought out his family and began taking the steps needed to make high quality, serious wines. A major step was taken not long after Jean-Jacques consolidation, a survey of the Chateau’s soils. Olivier was one of the first to map their soils and it led to them to the discovering of dozens of individual parcels within two established vineyards plus a third terroir was identified that has great potential for the Cabernet Sauvignon that was planted on it. “When these are mature (the third vineyard) Olivier will be able to rival any wine in the commune.” According to Clive Coates.
Of the two established vineyards, Belle Vue is planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot parcels at a slightly elevated altitude on the northwest side of the estate. Planted from 2004 to 2006, the Bel Air area, composed of compact gravels with impressive density, has proven to be a high-level terroir for their Cabernet Sauvignon. Clive Coates called this “..a very special terroir.” I’ve always found the wines of Olivier to be deliciously savory. Herbs and mixed olives are some of the calling cards that make the Chateau’s wines particularly unique.
James Suckling: 92-93 Points
Lots of blackberry, black-olive and blueberry aromas with some smoke. Medium-to full-bodied with fine tannins and a lively finish. Polished young red.
Wine Advocate: 91-93 Points
Very deep purple-black colored, the 2020 Olivier offers vibrant notions of wild blueberries, blackberry preserves and cassis, plus hints of clove oil, cinnamon stick and tree bark, with a waft of dusty soil. The medium-bodied palate is elegantly played with soft tannins and seamless freshness supporting the restrained black and blue fruit flavors, finishing earthy. (LPB)
