2023 Lafaurie-Peyraguey (Sauternes)

Intense golden amber in colour, reflecting a small yield, this has the rich intensity of the appellation, succulent and opulent and yet bursting with powerful lime zest, orange peel, preserved lemons, white truffle, pineapple, mandarin peel and slate. Luscious with grip and lift, and a clear return to form after a challenging 2022 here. Now majority owned by the Lalique luxury goods company rather than its owner Silvio Denz, with the sale completed in October 2023 (the same group owns The Glenturret whisky). 97 points

The 2023 Lafaurie-Peyraguey has a pure and perfumed bouquet with dried honey, peony, orange blossom and quince aromas that are very well defined. The palate is well balanced with a viscous opening and superb acidity, flush with very pure marmalade, quince and apricot flavors. Incredibly persistent on the finish, this is a very impressive Sauternes. 94-96 points