2013 - Suduiraut, Sauternes

Pale to medium straw-gold in color, the 2013 Suduiraut slides seductively out of the glass with opulent notions of Seville orange marmalade, apricot preserves, and allspice, followed by wafts of jasmine tea, chamomile, and almond croissant. The palate is decadently rich yet light on its feet, with intense exotic spice and stone fruit preserves flavors and a very long finish.

The 2013 Suduiraut, picked from 3 to 30 October, is destined to be overshadowed by the succeeding two vintages. The aromatics feel very “contained” with beeswax, dried honey and light spicy aromas, although it is missing the intensity of a top vintage. The palate is very well balanced with crisp acidity, very focused and poised, perhaps a more approachable Suduiraut since it does not possess the concentration of a more benevolent growing season. But it retains admirable freshness and there is a lovely spiciness, a dab of ginger on the aftertaste. 13.6% alcohol, 145gm/L residual sugar. Tasted at the Suduiraut vertical at the château.