This Sauternes estate originally took the name Suduiraut in 1580, upon the marriage of Nicole d’Allard to Leonard de Suduiraut. After being plundered and burned down during the Fronde insurrection, in the 17th century it was rebuilt and renamed Cru du Roy by a nephew of the Suduiraut family, who planted magnificent formal gardens designed by Le Notre, King Louis XIV’s renowned gardener. The estate was designated Premier Cru status in the 1855 Classification.

AXA Millesimes acquired Suduiraut in 1992 with the aim of preserving and perpetuating the estate’s remarkable tradition of vineyard management and winemaking. 92 hectares of vineyard are planted in sandy, gravelly soil superbly suited to Semillon and Sauvignon grapes. Semillon, which represents 90% of the Suduiraut vineyard’s vine population, is the preferred variety for Sauternes. Its very thin skin is particularly sensitive to the Botrytis Cinerea that gives rise to noble rot, which in turn results in a wine which is concentrated both in sweetness and aroma. The blend is then rounded off with the addition of about 10% Sauvignon Blanc.

The vines’ age (a majority of them are over 30 years old) is a guarantee of exceptional quality, giving well-nourished and more concentrated grapes.

Allow me to introduce the 2001 Chateau Suduiraut 2021 Ex-Chateau Release, a remarkable Sauternes Blend from the prestigious Bordeaux region of France. This exquisite white wine showcases the artistry and expertise of Chateau Suduiraut, a renowned producer known for their exceptional dessert wines.

In the glass, this wine presents a lustrous golden hue, captivating the eye with its radiant beauty. The nose is greeted with a symphony of aromas, beginning with rich caramelized nectarine and apricot fruits. There is a sense of uplift and steel that runs through the core, adding depth and complexity. The texture is sweet, yet the expression remains balanced and refined. As the wine unfolds, it reveals enticing notes of white pear dipped in saffron and cardamom, offering a more savory spectrum of fruit. After some time, the dried apricots take the lead, further enhancing the aromatic profile.

On the palate, the 2001 Chateau Suduiraut 2021 Ex-Chateau Release continues to impress. A line of racy acidity cuts through the fresh, ripe, and incredibly sweet flavors of pineapple, lemon curd, and apricots. The palate is enveloped in a delightful combination of vanilla bean and honey, adding a luxurious touch. Despite its weight and richness, the wine maintains a remarkable balance, thanks to the well-integrated acidity. This balance allows for a harmonious interplay between the sweet, fresh, ripe, and juicy elements.

Critics have consistently praised this vintage. Decanter awarded it an impressive score of 95 points, noting its concentrated and pointed character. James Suckling also recognized its potential, awarding it 93 points and describing it as full, very sweet, and tangy. The Wine Cellar Insider gave it a stellar score of 96 points, highlighting the wine's beauty and the racy acidity that brings balance to its flavors. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate bestowed a score of 94 points, commending its harmonious and focused palate. Lastly, Wine Spectator awarded it a remarkable score of 98 points, praising its gorgeous aromas and concentrated yet refined nature.

The 2001 Chateau Suduiraut 2021 Ex-Chateau Release is a wine that promises a long life ahead. With a residual sugar content of 150g/l and aging in 40% new oak, it showcases the exceptional craftsmanship and dedication of the winemakers at Chateau Suduiraut. This wine is a true masterpiece, offering a sensory experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.