Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc
75cl * Organic * 13.5% ABV * Sauternes, Bordeaux, France
One might think only of red wine producing châteaux of Bordeaux as being classed as 'First Growths', but this producer of Sauternes (the sweet white wine of Bordeaux, made famous by the likes of Yquem) is one of the original Premier Cru Classé estates from the 1855 classification.
Château Guiraud expresses elegant purity, aromatic refinement and subtle minerality. It is a brilliant example of the wonders of Botrytis Cinerea, otherwise known as noble rot. Sweet, well-balanced and full-bodied with lovely acidity. Notes of hawthorn flowers, candied ginger, apricot jam and hints of mint are followed by a long finish of tangy citrus fruits.
Pair with foie gras, blue cheese, lemon tart. This wine will be drinking well until at least 2035.
17/20 Jancis Robinson MW