Castelnau de Suduiraut Sauternes 2023 Half Bottle

Chateau Suduiraut "Castelnau de Suduiraut", Sauternes, Bordeaux, France, 2023, Half Bottle

Grapes: 100% Semillon, 90ha estate, gravel with clay/sand soils, 35 year old vines, sustainable farming, hand picked, 12hl/ha yield (from 3 pickings), native yeast fermentation, aged 18 months in French oak barrels (20% new), 142g/L residual sugar (sweet)

Producer Tasting Note:

Castelnau de Suduiraut 2023 reveals an intense golden yellow colour. The nose is expressive with aromas of lychee and rose. Then, after aeration, it develops notes of candied fruit, roasted apricot, honey and gingerbread. After a smooth but fresh attack, the palate is enveloping without being heavy, with flavours of spices, ginger and candied lemon, followed by apricot and mango. The finish is of roasted pineapple and pepper notes. A rich yet energetic wine, very charming now, with real potential for ageing. The 2023 vintage is generous, with distinct acidity, and a very classic botrytised character.

Critics' Tasting Notes:

"Glorious texture and freshness plus sweetness. Fabulous value. Only with Château Suduirautgrand vinalongside would you be disappointed. Very sweet!Very Good Value"  Drink 2025-2035

17/20 points, Jancis Robinson, November 2025

"Subtle cream, spices, honey, lemons, jackfruit and pineapple on the nose. A hint of white mushrooms, too. Medium-bodied with balanced sweetness and unctuousness. Long finish of honeyed tropical fruit. Drink now or hold."

93/100 points, James Suckling, January 2026

Castelnau de Suduiraut is the second wine of the prestigious Premier Cru Classé Château de Suduiraut which is situated in the commune of Preignac (neighbouring estate to d' Yquem). Made from portions of the harvest that are expressive earlier than those used for Château Suduiraut, this wine is more approachable when young compared to the grand vin itself.

The Sauternes appellation applies to 5 villages located south of the Ciron and it is this tributary of the Garonne which is responsible for the misty autumn conditions that give rise to noble rot, making it possible to make deliciously sweet wines from the concentrated sweet juice of the dehydrated grapes.

Food Match: Serve chilled with Foie Gras and blue cheese