2005 Chateau Guiraud Sauternes (375ml)

We must confess that we have a particular fondness for the Sauternes of Chateau Guiraud. During the days when Canadian Hamilton Narby and his family owned the Estate, the ‘old man’ had arranged for our family to stay with Hamilton and his family. As young kids we presented Hamilton’s son with an Aussie Rules football and taught him the great game while the ‘old man’ was out barrel tasting. We can still recall the aroma in the barrel hall of honey and peaches. The Narby's have since sold their interests, However, Chateau Guiraud continues to produce exceptional Sauternes.

Château Guiraud is 128 hectares in size of which 98 hectares are under vine, 85 of these are used to produce Sauternes with balance used to produce their dry white 'Le G de Guiraud'. The Sauternes is produced from vines with an average age of about 35 years old and is a blend of 65% Semillon and 35% Sauvignon Blanc, with maturation taking place in French oak for a period 18-24 months depending on the vintage. The grapes are handpicked by successive selections through the vines (up to 6 tries may be made) selecting only botrytised grapes. Berries must show a minimum of 20° alcohol before harvest is started in order to achieve the style of wine Chateau Guiraud demand.

Brilliant pale gold colour with straw hue. The Botrytis is quite evident on the nose with aroma of ripe apricots, tropical fruit and honey. There is a hint of toast as an end note. Rich, luscious palate, still very youthful - this is a classic Sauternes. Flavours of apricot, spice, peach and tropical fruit delivers a wine of excellent length and finesse. Clean dryish acid finish. Very long aftertaste of spice, honey and apricot. Cellar 10-20 years (2018-2028) Alc/Vol: 13.5%

Other Reviews…
Delivers lots of botrytis spice, with lemon tart and cooked apple. Full-bodied, with cream, vanilla and an intense tropical fruit and honey aftertaste. Long and viscous, with a beautiful spicy finish. Best after 2014.
97 points.
James Suckling, Wine Spectator

Also Available in 750ml Bottle

 Click here to read more about Sweet Whites of Bordeaux.