CHÂTEAU HAUT-RIAN

On slopes running down towards the majestic Garonne river, Haut Rians is a shining example of continuous improvement as one generation passes to another. Michel Dietrich is passing the baton on to his daughter Pauline Lapierre and the wines are remarkably impressive and modern in style. We visited in the autumn and tasted through the range finding a range of excellent precision and balance across the board. A particular favourite is the Haut Rian Blanc which has a delicious freshness, perfect for a Spring or Summer drinking. The reds are also excellent, outstanding value for money.

Their flagship wine is their stunning Bordeaux Blanc Sec made from 60% Sémillon and 40% Sauvignon Blanc. One third of the dry white blend is given a partial macération pelliculaire (a brief macération on the skins) and the juice is cold settled and racked and simply fermented at low temperature in stainless steel.

The rosé is always a real success, vibrant and juicy. It is a blend of 25% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and receives one night’s maceration, and is then vinified as a white wine, with a cold fermentation. The red wine is a revelation, and we now have a worthy red to match their wonderful white wine – a mouthful of fresh red fruits! A really good House Claret.

Les Vignes de Coulous’ Côtes de Bordeaux Rouge is made from 7 hectares of old vines. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. Gradually they will convert land to be cultivated organically. They are already certified as “Terra Vitis” since 2017 and Bee-friendly with HVE (Haute Valeur Environmentale) since 2018.

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