2010 Chateau Guiraud Sauternes Premier Grand Cru Classe 375ML

Sauternes is the iconic sweet wine of Bordeaux. This region is a paradise for lovers of sweetness, finesse, and elegant wines. It's not easy to find a good value Sauternes, (wines from this region can fetch up to $1,000 a bottle or more,) but when we do, we're thrilled to share them with you!

Nestled amidst the picturesque Sauternes wine region, where gravel, sand, and clay intermingle harmoniously, lies the esteemed Château Guiraud. With a history steeped in tradition and innovation, this Château has stood as a beacon of excellence since its acquisition by the Guiraud family in 1766. Despite the political and religious divides of its time, Château Guiraud proudly flourished, crafting wines of distinction under its iconic black and gold label.

Under the visionary leadership of Sandrine Garbay, Château Guiraud has embraced a philosophy deeply rooted in sustainability and biodiversity. Recognized as a pioneer in organic viticulture and awarded the prestigious Terres de Natures label, the estate's dedication to preserving the environment is unwavering. From nurturing diverse ecosystems to championing organic certification, every aspect of Château Guiraud's winemaking process reflects a profound respect for nature.

Crafted from a meticulous blend of 65% Sémillon and 35% Sauvignon Blanc, Château Guiraud Premier Cru embodies purity and balance. It exudes floral freshness, exotic nuances, and lusciously sweet flavors on a dense, well-rounded palate. Truly, a delicately aromatic masterpiece.

Château Guiraud’s unique terroir, where 80% sandy gravels and 20% clay gravels converge, delivers a stunning Premier Grand Cru Classé that reflects the essence of its surroundings. With subsoils of translucent sand, pure gravels, red clay, and limestone marls, the vineyards flourish atop fossilized oyster beds. It is within this rich tapestry of soil and climate that the grapes thrive, imparting a distinct character to each bottle of Château Guiraud.

Sauternes wines are made primarily from Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes that have been naturally affected by noble rot, Botrytis fungus. In this case, it’s a desirable fungus, allowing the perfect growing conditions for sweet wine. The fungus causes small holes in the skin of the grapes, and the grapes dehydrate on the vine, concentrating the sugar in the grapes, they look like raisins at harvest. The result is a wine with deep and complex flavors and aromas. 

Aging: 18 months in French oak barrels (80% new)