2005 Ch. Suduiraut, Sauternes

This AXA-owned property carries 90% Sémillon in the vineyard, which informs the assertive style associated with Ch. Suduiraut. Given that the extremely warm finish to the 2005 vintage also produced exceptionally ripe fruit and high levels of botrytis, the danger existed at Suduiraut for a fulsome, heavy-boned Sauternes. Nothing could be further from the truth. A beautiful bouquet of honeysuckle and orange blossom greets you, fresh, intense and lively. The palate is rounded, flattering and bright but without a trace of unctuousness. In truth, the wine lacks a little acidity to be great, but this allows the wine to be expressive and generous early in its career. The finish of contrasting butterscotch and orange rind is a delight. Not for the very long term, but luckily this is irresistible now. (Mark Pardoe MW, BBR Wholesale - Tasted at the St Emilion, Pomerol, Graves and Sauternes Cellar Tasting, 03/12/09 )

Under the ownership of AXA Millésimes, run by Englishman Christian Seely, this 16th century estate has really fulfilled its potential, firmly establishing itself amongst the top three or four in the region. Its 2005 demonstrates the stylishness of the vintage with its finely perfumed nose, while the palate combines elegance with an undeniable weight of exotic tropical citrus and white peach fruit. This is a brilliantly harmonious, complete wine with a sublime aftertaste.