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 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

In great Sauternes vintages we offer our “Liquid Gold” selection. We pick our favourites from the vintage in terms of both quality and value, and this is a fantastic way to enjoy a selection of the vintage’s best sweet wines. The wines are offered in halves (six halves of each wine) and packed in their own wooden case.

Our picks this year are:

2005 Ch. Rieussec, Sauternes
2005 Ch. Suduiraut, Sauternes
2005 Ch. La Tour Blanche, Sauternes
2005 Ch. Doisy-Védrines, Barsac

2005 is one of the best vintages in this decade for sweet Bordeaux wines, and may well match 2001 in some cases. The wines have flesh, weight, energy with fresh acidity to boot. This is an exceptional case for the cellar.