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The 2020 Aile d'Argent Bordeaux Blanc from Pauillac, France, is a noteworthy white wine produced by Aile d'Argent. This vintage marks the first year crafted entirely under the direction of Jean-Emmanuel Danjoy, with significant changes in its production process. The blend consists of 52% Sauvignon Blanc, 14% Sauvignon Gris, and 34% Sémillon, with an alcohol content of 14.0%.
Decanter awarded this wine a score of 93, noting its evolution under Danjoy's guidance. "You see a little less exuberance, a little more sculpting rather than width," commented Decanter, highlighting its "sea breeze and citrus aromatics" and "bright pineapple and apricot flavours." The wine maintains a "salty cracker finish" and avoids malolactic fermentation and skin contact, which are shifts from previous practices.
James Suckling gave an excellent review with a score of 96, describing the wine as "full-bodied with layers of fruit" and "ripe and flavorful." He praises its "sweet peach, honeysuckle, and citrus" notes and mentions that it has a "fleshy feel" due to the absence of malolactic fermentation this year.
Jeff Leve, from The Wine Cellar Insider, also rated it highly at 95 points. He succinctly captures its essence: "Squeeze fresh lemons over rocks and you get the picture. The wine is bright, zesty, crisp, and juicy." Leve appreciates its "creamy texture, lift, and length," noting its "purity and compelling freshness."
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave it a score range of 93-95+, praising its "fabulously flamboyant notes of fresh pineapple, nectarines, and jasmine," along with "key lime pie, passion fruit, and orange zest." The publication highlighted its "opulent tropical and citrus fruit layers" and "decadent touch of oiliness," predicting a promising aging potential.
Vinous rated it 93 points, describing the wine as "aromatic and vibrant" with "terrific energy and a bit more verve than in the past." Antonio Galloni commented that the "blocked malo style works especially well in this vintage," and he found the Sauvignon Blanc especially "expressive" in the wine's aromatic profile.
Overall, the 2020 Aile d'Argent Bordeaux Blanc is a well-regarded wine with a bright future, showcasing a refined balance of flavors and a fresh, vibrant profile.