2001 Chateau Raymond-Lafon Sauternes

Description

2001 Chateau Raymond-Lafon Sauternes

Sweet and unctuous but delightfully charming, the finest Sauternes typically express flavors of exotic dried tropical fruit, candied apricot, dried citrus peel, honey or ginger and a zesty beam of acidity.

Smillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Gris and Muscadelle are the grapes of Sauternes. But Smillon’s susceptibility to the requisite noble rot makes it the main variety and contributor to what makes Sauternes so unique. As a result, most Sauternes estates are planted to about 80% Smillon. Sauvignon is prized for its balancing acidity and Muscadelle adds aromatic complexity to the blend with Smillon.

Critical Acclaim

94 Wine Spectator

Rich and dense, and still quite primal, delivering layered flavors of creamed pear, fig, green plum, roasted almond, honey and buttered brioche. Dense, with gorgeous mouthfeel and a long, honeyed finish. Has the power to last for some time.

93 Wine Advocate

Robert M. Parker, Jr. Issue Date 29th Jun 2004 Source 153, The Wine Advocate A tightly-knit but unctuous effort, Raymond-Lafons 2001 exhibits aromas of espresso roast intermixed with honeyed peaches, apricots, lychee nuts, and a hint of coconut. A full-throttle heavyweight.

93 Vinous

The 2001 Raymond-Lafon has an attractive but understated nose of peach skin, saffron and light praline aromas. The well-balanced palate is taut and crisp with a fine bead of acidity, offering flavors of orange peel and quince and gently fanning out with touches of gingerbread toward the elegant finish. What a pretty and delicious Sauternes!