1978 Raymond Lafon

This was a good, but hardly special vintage for the wines of Sauternes. However, the 1978 Raymond-Lafon gets my nod as the best sweet wine of this vintage. It lacks the high level of botrytis found in vintages such as 1975 and 1980, but exhibits beautifully textured, viscous, velvety flavors, full body, a refreshing lemony acidity, and a clean, crisp finish. This is not the biggest Raymond-Lafon, but it is certainly one of the most graceful. Anticipated maturity: Now-2000. Last tasted, 1/85.