| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | France > Bordeaux > Sauternes and Barsac |
| Colour | Sweet White |
| Type | Still |
The 2023 Guiraud, now made by former Yquem winemaker Sandrine Garbay, has a rather reticent nose at first, opening with orange pith and pear aromas. It just needs a bit more intensity. The palate is medium-bodied with a tangy opening. It’s a little spicier than its peers—marmalade and stem ginger, with more peachiness toward the finish. It feels harmonious and poised, but I would wait until the aromatics open, so give it four to five years after bottling.
You really see the class and botrytis character here with clarity and focus. Notes of spice, mushroom powder, subtle apricot and honey. It’s medium-bodied, fresh and bright with nice sweetness at the end. A modern and precise Sauternes.
Vivid gold in colour, laced with white peach juice, grilled pear, stone fruits, lime juice, opulent but with sculpted lift and zest, this extends outwards and upwards through the palate, capturing the pleasure of 2023 sweet wines in Bordeaux. Has spice and character, gorgeously expressive even now, and will age with ease. Sandrine Garbay, long time winemaker of Yquem, is director at this 128ha estate, that has been farmed organically since 2011. Harvest began on September 27 and continued through to October 13.
The 2023 Giraud is a statuesque, ravishing beauty. White flowers, passion fruit, mint, orange blossom and apricot are some of the many notes that soar out of the glass. Complex, deep and wonderfully dynamic, Giraud is a positively stellar wine in this great Sauternes vintage. I loved it.
65% Sémillon, 35% Sauvignon Blanc. Cask sample.
Pale gold colour. Concentrated nose with marmalade and tropical-fruit notes. Palate rich and full. Layered fruit with a balancing freshness. More concentration this year. (JL) 13.8%
Drink 2027 – 2045
