The World of Fine Wine – 2023 Bordeaux tasting notes: Sauternes & Barsac

Château Coutet 2023: 96-97/100
Aged for 18 months in barrel, and the child of four separate tris (the key, third outing taking place on and after October 2), this is a triumphant Coutet, every bit as good as the 2014, according to cellar master Laurier Giradot. The juxtaposition of high acidity (tartaric acid is only degraded when the temperature goes over 95˚F [35˚C]) and perfect botrytic conditions—perfect balance, in other words. A classic Barsac nose of limes, quince, meringue, and flint; thereafter, the sweetness lends barley sugar and a hint of truffle. Poised and balanced. A magnificent Barsac.

Opalie de Château Coutet 2023: 92-93/100
A classy offering, as one would expect from this superlative address. Dry white wine makes up just over 10% of Coutet’s production, significantly less, therefore, than many of its neighbors. Aromas of spring flowers and lemon posset, almond essence, and wet stone. The Sauvignon exuberance lifts the ensemble, but is grounded, up to a point, by the dry extract of the Semillon, with flint and almond evidenced. A broad gentle palate, its acidity poised and nourishing. Good mid-term aging potential, with plenty of gastronomic inclination.

Simon Field