1997 CHÂTEAU DOISY DAENE 1997

.

Tasted with Denis Dubourdieu at the chateau. With no Sauvignon Blanc in the blend, the 1997 Doisy-Daene has a lovely nose that is evolving beautifully: honey, mandarin and subtle petrol aromas. The palate is rich and viscous with pure honey, apricot and quince. Smooth and sensual, this is turning out to be one of the finest Sauternes from the vintage. Tasted April 2011.

This wine smells of rose and muscat so intensely that it makes me think of late harvests or selections of noble Gewurz grains. Fresh fruit and touches of pineapple top it all off. The palate also surprises for its tense character, without any impasto accompanied by a fine sweetness. In the finish, this wine offers a beautiful roasted, tasty, long and noble character. Tasted at the end of a meal in February 2003, it was quite delicious.

A Sauternes with lovely caramel and pineapple character. Full-bodied and medium sweet, with a long, flavorful finish. Best after 2001.

Mid-gold, intensely botrytised nose almost reminiscent of a Beerenauslese. Full, confident wine with a certain neatness about it. Not a blockbuster but attractively creamy. Slightly short.