2005 White Bordeaux

D'Yquem still seems to be head and shoulders above everyone else in Sauternes but Rieussec is part of the select group - made up of Climens and Suduiraut - chasing for the second spot. This is better than 2003 but a little bit behind 2001 in terms of gravitas and zingy acidity. It is nonetheless a cracking wine with immense class, intensity and elegance plus firm acidity that provides a backbone for the rich fruit. Made from 91% Semillon, 8% Sauvignon Blanc and 1% Muscadelle, it combines purity with great balance., while very pure, rich apricots with hints of fruit peel abound. Drink 2010-2030.

This is another mouthwateringly good effort from Ch. Coutet. One of the classics of the region Coutet has once again provided a model of elegance and balance and style in 2005. Discreet and stylish, the fine pale colour and graceful, aromatic floral bouquet are supported by a beautifully harmonious palate of pure sweet citrus, peach and honeysuckle. As with the finest red wines of the vintage, the class really shows on the finish, which is intense, complex and exceptionally long. A wonderful Sauternes for the true connoisseur.

This delightful golden sweetie will provide the perfect pairing to sweet puddings such as Tarte Tatin and blue cheeses like Roquefort. The Chevaliers de Védrines who owned this property for centuries (until 1840) would be proud of the job that the Castéja family have done here. Doisy-Védrines is one of the stars of the 2005 vintage for its sublime elegance, richness and finesse. A terrific, fine, perfumed nose with a lifting touch of botrytis acts as the impressive entrée for a wonderfully pure Sauternes of extraordinary length. The wine is like an immaculately tailored suit on a perfectly formed body. This is highly reminiscent of their truly exceptional 1989.

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, Fine Wine Wholesale - Tasted at the St Emilion, Pomerol, Graves and Sauternes Cellar Tasting, 03/12/09

A fine, bright pale colour, lovely forward fruit, elegant and precise with an attractive medium/long fragrant finish. For enjoyable early drinking. Drink 2008 to 2020 BBR Score: 16/20