Tasting Notes

89
Vinous Stephen Tanzer - 01 Jul 98
Gold-tinged straw-yellow. Ripe, slightly high-toned, rot-ennobled aromas of dried fruits, pineapple, fresh apple, honey and nuts; very aromatic. Thick and intensely flavored in the mouth, with impressive concentration and plenty of viscosity. Quite mouthfilling and honeyed. Finishes very long, with honey and licorice notes and a strong botrytis character. Also a hint of heat. Finished with 70 grams per liter residual sugar, considerably higher than either '89 or '88.
Drinking Date:
Sauternes Fine Wine

Sauternes

Sauternes, a renowned Bordeaux appellation in the Graves region, is famous for its luxurious sweet white wines made from Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle grapes affected by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). This fungus concentrates sugars, creating wines with rich sweetness balanced by vibrant acidity. Sauternes wines feature complex aromas and flavours of apricot, honey, peach, citrus, and vanilla, with excellent ageing potential. Top producers include Château d'Yquem, Château Rieussec, Château Suduiraut, and Château Coutet.