2023, Château Coutet, BARSAC, 1er Grand Cru Classé, Grand Vin de Sauternes

Last Year EP $62.00-

This leading Barsac property is one of the oldest in the region and has been producing wine since 1643. It is owned by the Baly family with technical and commercial input from Baron Philippe de Rothschild (Mouton). The 2023 is 95% Semillon, 4% Sauvignon Blanc, 1% Muscadelle

The 2023 Coutet has a tightly-wound bouquet that demands more coaxing than its peers. It typically already possesses laser-sharp focus and is less flamboyant than fellow Barsacs, underpinned and sharpened by its limestone soils. The palate is well balanced with intense botrytised fruit, lightly spiced dried honey and orange rind notes, just a hint of apricot in the background, stretching out on the finish that lingers on the tongue. It is certainly a very fine contribution to the vintage that should age well in bottle.
94-96 Neal Martin.

Beautiful aromatics, fresh acidity that picks things up from the first moment, crisp citrus, mango, pineapple, grated ginger, and a twist of bitter aniseed on the finish. Richly concentrated, reflecting small yields, but once again a wine that shows the huge potential of this style in the 2023 vintage.
96 Jane Anson.

The 2023 Coutet is stellar. Soaring aromatics and bright acids drive through a core of lemon confit, apricot, mint, spice, passion fruit and pineapple. The interplay of deep, layered flavours and energy is so compelling. 2028-2048
93-95 Antonio Galloni.