2011 Lions de Suduiraut 375ml

While it seems that the generally mediocre 2011 Bordeaux reds brought everyone even remotely associated with wine back down to earth, gold is still glowing in and around Sauternes. The dream run of 2009 and 2010 became a trifecta for many producers and the famed Bordeaux district stole the show from the reds during the En Primeurs tasting, with the wines described early as "opulent and aromatic". A clear picture of the vintage emerged early with most commentators agreeing on superlatives, in fact, one could have wondered if a single drop of red wine had been produced - such was the focus of attention on the sweet and golden nectars! We have directly imported an affordable selection from this brilliant vintage.

Suduiraut are up there with d'Yquem when it comes to prestige in the world of sweet white. This is the first release of their third label produced predominately from Semillon. It's the wine that's had some US commentators suggesting it as a candidate for the “greatest Sauternes bargain ever”. Brilliant pale straw colour with vibrant pale gold greenish tinged edges and very pale straw hue. The nose displays intense honeyed top notes alongside some toastiness, ripe apricot, citrus and spice. Rich with a thick mouth coating viscosity the palate delivers concentrated honeyed apricot and peach over some citrusy marmalade like flavours. Clean finish. Long luscious honeyed peach and apricot aftertaste. Love it!
Cellar 5-6 years (2019-2020).
Alc 13.5%

Other Reviews....
A tangy, lively white with sliced apple, cooked pear and honey. Full body, very sweet. Spicy, fruity and lively. Closed and beautiful. Try in 2018.
93 points
James Suckling