Before I entered the wine business, if you were to ask me what Sauternes is, I would have laughed and said I have no idea. I feel this may be the case for a lot of consumers out there or they are just intimidated by the stigma this region has.
I have heard everything from; it tastes like gasoline to it will give you the worst hang over you have ever had. Let me be the first to discredit all of these claims and tell you that if you haven't had an opportunity to try a glass there is no better time than the present. Think about warming up to a fire after a long day at the office or even better a fabulous meal and experiencing a white wine that will overload your senses with joy and affection. Affection you may ask? The reason I say affection is because once this glorious liquid enters your system you will fall madly in love and yearn for more.
Just the other night we cracked a bottle of 2001 Lafaurie-Peyraguey. For the price this is a no brainer to get you started with the fantastic region in the south of Bordeaux. On the nose, I was immediately hit with a petrol, almost kerosene bouquet. This threw me off even though I'm well aware that this is a signature scent associated with the highest quality Sauternes. I also noticed hints of caramel and smoky nuances allowing the mind to think of the crackling fire and the holiday season. On the palate, this is a knock-your socks off experience! Velvety-smooth almost beyond comprehension, and an incredible complexity of candied tangerine, hints of vanilla and caramel just for starters. But amazingly, there was a depth and elegance that prevented it from being overly sweet. The finish went on for at least two minutes. We tasted this with a delicious stilton bleu cheese and a country style pate that was a match made in heaven. I know I will enjoy a glass of this fine display of the 2001 vintage after my holiday meal. I have been fortunate enough to try the elusive 2001 d'Yquem (100 points) and while it is on a level by itself, for a fraction of the cost, the 2001 Lafaurie will not disappoint.
There was a ton of hype as I am sure you are aware for the 2000 vintage in Bordeaux but in Sauternes the hype was 2001! With an overall vintage rating of 98 you cannot go wrong with any one choice and why not start with this one. In stock and ready to ship for $79.95.