by Daniel Rogov » Fri Jul 25, 2008 6:22 am
Yariv, Hi....
Following are my most recent tasting notes for the wines in question. Lawsy, lawsy, some nice wines here.
Best
Rogov
Chateau Sigalas-Rabaud, Sauternes, 1998: Dark gold with distinct orange tints, full-bodied and with generous botrytis influence. On the nose and palate honeyed apples and apricots, those supported nicely by hints of crème Chantilly, dried juniper berries and licorice. Fine sweetness here well balanced by acidity and a long creamy finish that goes on and on. Drink now-2015. Score 93. (Re-tasted 8 May 2006)
Chateau Guiraud, Sauternes, 2001: Showing more full-bodied now than at barrel tastings but in every way living up to its potential. Deep golden yellow, with a creamy texture and abundant botrytis influence. On the nose and palate honeyed peaches, apples, and citrus matched nicely by generous spiciness. Drinking nicely now but best starting only in 2007 and then cellaring comfortably until 2020. Score 95. (Re-tasted 7 Jan 2005)
Chateau Les Justices, Sauternes, 2003: Not the best known of the Sauternes producers but sometimes turning out memorable and age-worthy wines at reasonable prices. Medium- to full-bodied, with moderate botrytis influence and generous sweetness well balanced by natural acidity. Opens with dried apples and oak, those yielding to crème Catalan and citrus notes. Long, rich and generous. Best 2008-2015. Score 90. (Tasted twice with consistent notes 7 Mar 2006)
Chateau Rayne-Vigneau, Sauternes, 2003: Even the cellar master agrees (with a huge grin) that this wine is showing far, far better than at barrel tastings. Medium- to full-bodied, with generous botrytis spice and funkiness and fine balance between sweetness and acidity. On opening attack honeyed apples and sugar-coated orange peel, those going on to reveal an almost lemon pudding note and finally picking up a generous hint of cloves on the long finish. Drinking nicely now but at its best from 2010. Score 91. (Re-tasted twice with consistent notes 7 and 22 Mar 2006)
Chateau Sigalas-Rabaud, Sauternes, 2003: Bright gold with orange tints, full-bodied and concentrated enough to be thought of as "thick". With its apricot and peach jam and citrus marmalade, think of this not so much to drink but as to spread on lightly toasted brioche slices. Well, I exaggerate a bit but drinking this does have something akin to walking to the frig and sneaking a spoonful or two of fine jam. Drink now-2020, perhaps longer. Score 92. (Re-tasted but not blind 11 Jan 2008)
