Vineyard and winemaking
Cuvée Edouard Rive comes from Château Bel Air’s Merlot-dominant vineyards in Montagne-Saint-Émilion. The estate combines a rocky clay-limestone plateau, including vines over 40 years old, with a clay-rich slope; the contrasting parcels bring both breadth and a fresh mineral edge.
The 2006 matured for 12 months in oak, followed by a further 12 months in bottle before release. Time has since softened its structure and drawn the fruit towards a more savoury register, while the vintage’s acidity continues to give the wine balance.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Mature garnet red with brick highlights and a dark core.
Nose
Dried black cherry, plum and cassis are layered with cedar, tobacco and bay leaf. Notes of leather, cocoa and warm spice emerge gradually rather than forcefully.
Palate
Composed and savoury, with mellow dark fruit, resolved tannins and a distinct mineral freshness. Liquorice, dark chocolate and gentle smoke linger through a long, quietly complex finish.
Food pairing
Serve with roast pheasant, duck breast with lentils, beef and mushroom pie, or celeriac baked with truffle and thyme. Its mature earthiness also complements a nutty Comté.
Background story
The cuvée honours the Rive family, whose connection with Bel Air began when Elie Rive bought the first vineyard parcel in 1860. François Duverneuil took charge in 2005 and renewed the estate, with Anaïs Duverneuil continuing the family stewardship from 2019.
Sommelier’s Choice is delighted to have privileged access to Bel Air’s back catalogue. The relationship reflects our commitment to family-owned, boutique estates that offer value and a genuine sense of origin. As a mature 2006, this bottle should be stood upright, opened gently and decanted only if needed to remove sediment.
