2013 Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey

The 2013 Lafaurie-Peyraguey disproves the claim that this derided vintage produced no great wines. It was picked from September 26 to October 25 through four tries , cropped at 11.6hl/ha, and matured in 65% new French oak. The residual sugar is 135g/L. This maiden vintage under Silvio Denz is a knockout and also the first bottle to be embossed with the Lalique-inspired glass design. Iridescent in color, the wine is blessed with an exquisite, open, generous bouquet of layered fresh mango, quince and peach. I am most impressed by the clarity and precision, given the intensity of this Sauternes. The palate follows through with vibrant wild honey, clementine and quince notes, all underpinned by razor-sharp acidity that counterbalances the unctuosity on the harmonious finish. So delicious you could broach bottles now, but surely it will age with style. The choice is yours. Tasted from an ex-château bottle sent to my home.