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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!

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, which look like raisins at harvest. The result is a wine with deep and complex flavors and aromas.

The Clos Haut-Peyraguey vineyard is nestled on the highest point of the plateau of the Bommes commune in Sauternes, it is located in the heart of the growths classified in 1855 as Premier Cru Classé. Opposite Château d’Yquem, this ancient barony has survived the centuries since its first harvest in 1618. With 7 years already under this bottle's belt, it is ready to start opening today.

In the vineyards, sustainable farming is practiced. Replanting is done by phasing in new vines, rather than replacing whole plots. Once the famous botrytis, or noble rot, has made its appearance on the bunches, the grapes are picked by hand in several passes, only the most sugar-rich and aromatic berries being picked each time.

95% Semillon, 5% Sauvignon Blanc. A floral bouquet reveals fresh fruit, tropical fruit as well as notes of spice, wood, cinnamon, and vanilla. A fleshy, silky texture. Lovely freshness, a silky mid-palate, and a finish with good weight.

This is silky but with a proper mule kick of acidity on the finish, given layers and depth by gunsmoke. This has great balance - a lemon curd start and lime zest finish. Enjoyable. ~96 Decanter

Rich and concentrated, this wine is a success from this difficult vintage. With flavors of ripe apricot, orange marmalade and honey, along with layers of dry botrytis, the wine has all the elements for some good aging. Drink from 2025. ~95 Wine Enthusiast

The 2018 Clos Haut-Peyraguey deftly marries opulence with energy. Apricot jam, orange confit, , marzipan, pineapple and mint build in the glass. From bottle, the Clos Haut-Peyraguey shows a touch more power than it did as a barrel sample. Even with all of its richness, the 2018 shows quite a bit of vibrancy as well, and that makes for compelling drinking. I imagine a few years in the cellar will only help. ~94 Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

Pale to medium lemon-gold colored, the 2018 Clos Haut-Peyraguey offers up bold, expressive notes of orange peel, lemon meringue pie, candied ginger and lime blossoms with hints of nutmeg and almond croissant. The palate has a toasty/savoriness to complement all that vibrant fruit, along with a silken texture and subtly nutty finish. ~90-92 Robert Parker, Wine Advocate

Raisin, marmalade and honey. Some ginger notes as well. It’s full-bodied with a rich texture and palate. Some spices at the finish. Flavorful. Try after 2024. ~92 James Suckling

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