Doisy Védrines 2018

The 2018 Doisy-Védrines has a very sensual and, for this Barsac cru, understated bouquet that gradually unfolds to reveal dried honey, almond and touches of ginger and orange blossom. The palate is very viscous, as is customary with Doisy-Védrines, offering notes of lemon curd, quince, apricot and a touch of spice on the finish. It is quintessentially Barsac with a satisfying, long aftertaste. 2023 - 2045

A little syrupy, but some attractive sweetness and it’s a little spicy. Full-bodied. Oily texture at the end.

The balance is extremely good, between richly textured stone fruits and plenty of grip, with poise and lift. The limestone and red clay soils of Barsac have really helped here, where the grapes were able to keep their freshness even while the botrytis took its time to install. 37% new oak was used. A yield of 10.5hl/ha.

Drinking Window 2022 - 2040

Ripe pears on the nose. Thick and viscous and rich, ripest of lemon fruit with a touch of orange. Lemon bonbons. Deep and just fresh enough for harmony. 13.5%
Drink 2023-2030

The bright, vivid and honeyed Doisy Vedrines represents some of the best value for money in Sauternes. With its honeyed apricots, lightly botrytic marmalade and subtle sweet spices on the nose it is rich but enticing. The palate is full bodied and sweet but cut through by racy acidity. This makes the weighty and honeyed fruit seem vibrant and lifted, with notes of honeysuckle and lemon curd alongide the more tropical elements to the wine. Long and sweetly spiced on the finish.

(87 Semillon, 13 Sauvignon Blanc) Very well made and in a difficult vintage this wine has retained core sweetness and, crucially, length. The fruit notes are expansive and the finish is tight and combative and I have no doubt it will age evenly.