Chateau Guiraud Sauternes 2011
The palate is well balanced with a fine line of acidity. This is a more understated Sauternes, harmonious and nonchalant in style, but don't be fooled because there is great tension, delineation and poise on the finish, the fruit seamlessly bound with the new oak.
Chateau Guirard, located in the heart of the commune of Sauternes, has a 100-hectare vineyard in a single block. The vines are planted around the cellars and the chateau. The Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes ripen very early at Guiraud and undergo tremendous natural concentration due to the effects of "noble rot" (botrytis). The harvest takes place in several waves and the grapes are literally picked one by one. This process is not only risky, but accounts for very low yields. It nevertheless results in rich, complex wines.