2021 Aile d`Argent (Bordeaux Blanc)

Bursting with aromas of confit citrus, nectarine, grapefruit and pastry cream, the 2021 Aile d`Argent is a medium to full-bodied, rich and fleshy wine that`s ample and textural, and indeed a touch fat, despite the cooler vintage. It`s a blend of 45% Sauvignon Blanc, 19% Sauvignon Gris and the balance Semillon. 89-91 points

The 2021 Aile d`Argent has a more Sauvignon-driven bouquet with lime flower, orange pith, a hint of grapefruit and gooseberry. The palate is well-balanced with a spicy entry, just a hint of ginger, well-balanced with a saline finish. This is absolutely delicious. 91-93 points

Beautiful intensity and grip through the palate, this shows white pear, juicy citrus, and slate-filled salinity on the finish. Great stuff, with teasingly drawn out flavours, lift and tension, and hidden depths. Some frost meant the yields were lower than normal at 32hl/h. 15% malolactic fermentation to soften the acidities, with Sauvignon Gris vines included within the Sauvignon Blanc count, and no Muscadelle in the blend as the vines have now been uprooted, giving a slight break in style (for the better in my opinion). 3.25ph, 45% new barrels for ageing. First year with Jean-Emmanuel Danjoy as director from beginning to end of the growing season, after Philippe Dhaulluin`s retirement. 96 points