2008 White Bordeaux

'Spellbinding' was how we described this wine when tasting the 2008 en primeur. Masses of juicy grapefruit dominates the nose whilst complex layers of lush guava notes even out towards ripe Galia melon on the palate. The scent of fresh vanilla binds this wine together whilst a refreshing lick of acidity adds harmonious balance, and the long length is truly mouthwatering.

We can't help but wonder - if this is how good it is when tasted young, how good it will be next year when it is ready to drink? At this price, you can afford to find out that answer for yourself.

Only a couple of sweet wines really stood out from our tastings in 2008 and Ch. Guiraud was one of them. Lovely, orange botrytis notes abound on a silky, mouthcoating, honeyed palate. Lighter in style than some Sauternes powerhouses, this has a delicate, fresh apricot fruit style which adds delightful finesse and charm. It is however the delightfully refreshing acidity that really made it shine. Quite delicious, this promises enjoyment over many years to come.

Exceptionally low yields (just 15 hl/ha) have resulted in ripe apricot and honeysuckle flavours with juicy, dried apricot fruit and a glorious, glycerol texture. This is elegant and fine with lovely crisp acidity in perfect balance with the sugar. Just a smidgen off the incredible 2007 perhaps, but a thoroughly fine addition to your cellar all the same.Owner and winemaker Olivier Castéja says that the direction the wind is blowing at harvest is a good indication of the quality of the vintage; if you can hear the train it signifies that the wind is blowing from the west and conditions are likely to be dry, if you can hear the motorway to the east, then bad weather could be on its way. Fortunately in 2008, the only sound to be heard during the harvest was the train clattering along the railway track to the west, and the weather was warm, fine and dry throughout.

Exceptionally low yields (just 15 hl/ha) have resulted in ripe apricot and honeysuckle flavours with juicy, dried apricot fruit and a glorious, glycerol texture. This is elegant and fine with lovely crisp acidity in perfect balance with the sugar. Just a smidgen off the incredible 2007 perhaps, but a thoroughly fine addition to your cellar all the same.