1996 Lafaurie Peyraguey

The 1996 Lafaurie-Peyraguey has quite a deep hue, though nothing of concern for a 23-year-old Sauternes. The intense bouquet features aromas of syrup and stewed fig, a slight adhesive scent, and, with aeration, something sweeter, more like marzipan or nougat. A little muddled, but enjoyable. The palate is well defined with pleasing viscosity. Notes of clementine, almond and mango reveal an underlying Thai fish oil tincture and maybe just a little heat on the finish. But overall, not a bad 1996 Sauternes at all, even if I doubt it will improve with further cellaring. Tasted from an ex-château bottle at Gezellig restaurant in London.