Chateau Olivier, Pessac Leognan Grand Cru Classe de Graves White 2016

"The Olivier 2016 Blanc gives up elderflower, lime juice and fresh Bosc pear scents with touches of honeysuckle, crushed stones and waxy lemons. Medium-bodied, the palate delivers wonderful tension and intensity with loads of honeyed citrus layers and a perfumed finish."

The Wine Advocate 91pts.

Chateau Olivier is one of the oldest properties in Bordeaux. Historians believe the estate dates back as far as the 11th century. Some ancient remnants of the original buildings can be seen close to the east pavilion on the lower portions of the property. There is even a moat and drawbridge classified as historical monuments.

In 1867, Chateau Olivier was purchased by the mayor of Bordeaux, Alexandre de Bethmann. The de Bethmann family, which has their ancestral roots in Germany, owns a very large banking operation, Bethmann Bank. Chateau Olivier continues to remain in the hands of the de Bethmann family today.

Chateau Olivier is quite large at 220-hectares. However, it is important to note that only 60 hectares are under vine. For the red wine, 52 hectares are planted to 58% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot. 

For the white Bordeaux wine of Chateau Olivier, 8 hectares of vines are planted to 78% Sauvignon Blanc, 20% Semillon, and 2% Muscadelle. 

For the production of the red wine of Chateau Olivier, the wines are vinified in temperature-controlled, stainless steel vats. Malolactic fermentation takes place in the tank. The wines of Chateau Olivier are aged in an average of 30% new French oak barrels for between 12 and 14 months.

To produce the white wine of Chateau Olivier, 33% of the berries are allowed skin contact before fermentation. Vinification begins in tanks and is finished in French oak barrels. The wine is aged on its lees for 9 months before bottling.