Name of Estate/Domaine:
Lions de Suduiraut, the second wine of Château Suduiraut, a prestigious Sauternes estate classified as Premier Cru in 1855.
Country/Region:
France, Bordeaux – Sauternes.
Grape/Blend: Primarily Sémillon, blended with Sauvignon Blanc.
ABV: 13.5%
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Bright golden yellow.
- Aroma: Aromas of honey, apricot, orange peel, and tropical fruits with floral undertones.
- Palate: Lush and velvety on the palate, offering layers of candied citrus, ripe mango, and hints of vanilla. Balanced by refreshing acidity, leading to a long and elegant finish.
Terroir:
Gravelly and sandy soils over a clay subsoil, ideal for noble rot (Botrytis cinerea) development that concentrates the grapes’ sugars and flavors.
Viticulture:
- Manual harvesting in several passes to select botrytised grapes at peak ripeness.
- Meticulous care throughout the growing season to encourage noble rot.
Vinification:
- Fermented in oak barrels to enhance complexity and texture.
- Aged on lees in French oak for 12 to 18 months before bottling.
Food pairing:
- Blue cheeses such as Roquefort or Stilton.
- Foie gras or pâté with toast points.
- Fruit-based desserts like tarte tatin or poached pears.
- Spicy Asian cuisine, where sweetness complements the heat.
Serve well-chilled at around 8–10°C to highlight its vibrant aromas and silky texture.
