Unctuous and ripe, with mouthfilling almond cream, ginger, heather honey and apricot flavors, this will need time to unwind fully, but when it does, expect more pineapple, maple and singed orange notes, as this has some depth and power in reserve, with more than enough cut for balance. A beauty in the making. Best from 2018 through 2038. From France. — J.M.

The 2013 Coutet has one of the most complex aromatics you will find this year - a smorgasbord of citrus fruit, lime zest, orange blossom and white peach that is beautifully interwoven with compelling mineralite. The palate is extremely well-balanced, very intense and linear right from the start, with wonderful tension toward the finish that exhibits just a hint of spice. In other words, this is everything you expect from a great Coutet. - NEAL MARTIN (WA95-93)

The 2013 Coutet has an attractive nose with dried honey, frangipane, rosewater and orange pith scents, blossoming nicely in the glass like a bashful child suddenly discovering their singing voice. The palate is well balanced with a viscous opening, lightly spiced marmalade and tangy apricot laced with white pepper on the finish. Impressive in terms of length, this Barsac is drinking well right now, but knowing Coutet's propensity to mature, will give another couple of decade's drinking pleasure. -- Neal Martin