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2003 Chateau Briatte Sauternes (375ml)
In 2003 the Appellations of Sauternes and Barsac were blessed with another outstanding vintage. The wines are fat, full and opulent, with high levels of residual sugar and good amounts of honeyed botrytis. But not every estate got it right. Berry Brothers of London report that “many wines were incredibly sweet but lacked the beautiful balance of fresh acidity so prevalent in the glorious 2001’s'. However, the estates that have got it right have really struck liquid gold.
Many people consider Sauternes, due to its honeyed sweetness, to be purely a dessert wine. Glazed, ripe fruits, crème caramel and a host of other simple dessert dishes are the most common pairing. In reality, Sauternes is much more versatile. Served chilled, it makes a wonderful aperitif when matched with foie gras (goose liver pate). Sauternes and pan fried trout is another wonderful combination. The sweet flesh of the trout and its crisp skin are matched brilliantly. Similarly, Crayfish and Sauternes is a sublime match. The classic dish served up in the Auberge de Vin in Sauternes is duck breast barbequed on the dried canes of Sauternes vines, served with a plate of frites (thin fries).
We can recall a grape picker’s lunch at Chateau Petrus, where rough cut lamb chops were marinated in Sauternes. Blue cheese and Sauternes is another formidable pairing. Roquefort is classic, but there are so many great Australian blue cheeses available – try True Milawa Blue or Shadows of Blue for a truly indulgent experience.
It would seem that almost anything goes with Sauternes - with the exception of chocolate. The combination is a terrible clash of flavours and the Sauternes takes on an ordinariness that is bound to bring squeals of failure to the table and scorn upon the host. (Keep the Pedro Ximinez Sherry for the chocolate dishes).
Tasting note: A blend of the three classic grape varieties, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle. Brilliant golden colour with gold hue. Top note of honey, honeycomb, apricot and spice. There is a hint of toffee. Generous mouthfeel – rich luscious palate. Flavours of honeycomb, honey and apricot, clean acid finish. Long aftertaste of honeycomb, honey and toffee.Cellar 8-10 years (2015-2017)
Alc/Vol: 14.0%