Sauternes is one of the truly special and unique experiences of the wine world.  It is a rich, nectar-like, golden ambrosia that lights up the senses and brings a smile to everyone’s face.  A fine Sauternes, as it glows in the candlelight, is a wonderful way to cap a holiday meal.  
 
Château Coutet was recognized as a First Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux classification alongside the finest wines from the Médoc and Graves regions.  Full-time production at Coutet dates back to 1643. Thomas Jefferson, in addition to being the third president, was also a wine merchant and he acknowledged Château Coutet in his diaries as "the best Sauternes in Barsac."  In the 19th and early 20th century the estate was owned by the same owners as Château d’Yquem.  Today the wine making team is advised by the technical staff of Château Mouton Rothschild.
 
The 2009 vintage was one of the best in many years for the property and at PJs we bought up as much we could get as soon as it was released.  Château Coutet can be enjoyed on the young side and is just now entering its prime drinking window. It will age well for 25 years or more.  
 
The wine is sweet of course, but there is racy acidity so the wine always feels fresh and never cloying.  With Château Coutet, and with all Sauternes, temperature is more important than decanting.  It should be served at ‘cellar temperature’, not quite as cold typically for a white, around 55 degrees. 
 
A deep golden color, the first impression is of its richness, mixing notes of a beautiful botrytisation (citrus, candied fruits, hints of honey) with more delicate spicy touches.  On the palate complexity emerges, blending breadth and roundness with flavors of candied fruits, plum as well as more classic notes typical of the ageing process such as vanilla and caramel, but also mild spices and white pepper. The finish is expressive, warm, and long.
 
James Suckling, 96 pts –
“A triumph for the vintage with spices, dried mushroom, dried pineapple, peaches, and honey. Full and sweet with bright acidity and a long, intense finish. Powerful wine. This could be the best Coutet ever.” 
 
Wine Advocate, 95 pts -
“The 2009 Coutet has a very intense nose of apricot, papaya, honeysuckle and orange cordial that is very well defined . . . The palate is very well- balanced with a rounded, caressing entry. There is certainly tremendous weight in the mouth and abundant botrytis, especially upon the unctuous finish. This has great potential -- a fantastic wine from one of the finest Barsac estates. Drink now-2035+”
 

Chateau Coutet, Sauternes-Barsac 2009
Regular Price $79.99
Sale Price $74.97


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