2008 Nairac

The 2008 Chateau Nairac has a waxy bouquet with scents of kumquat and pineapple, the oak not quite as well assimilated as the 2009. The palate is fresh on the entry with a delicate touch of spice. It gathers intensity toward the middle and finish, fanning out nicely with mandarin and marmalade notes. This has more to give, so cellar for another two or three years, but opt for the 2007 or 2009 if you want to see Nairac firing on all cylinders. Drink 2016-2035. Tasted March 2014.

Pale orange-gold. Tangy aromas of peach, tangerine and honey are pure but a bit youthfully subdued; this reminded me a bit of an Alsace SGN. Juicy, penetrating and pure, with exhilarating high-toned verve and clarity to its fruit-driven flavors of pineapple, tangerine and peach. Racy acidity and strong saline minerality give lift and urgency to the long, tactile. I love this style.

Very cloudy sample – looks more like apple juice. Honey and lemon cold remedy aromas but also fresh apple and pear. Intense orange and lemon zest on the palate. Full flavoured, crisp, concentrated and long. (JH)