An English fortress built in the 13th century, Chateau Coutet became a wine producing estate in 1643. Previously owned by the Lur-Saluces family, it was once home to Chateau d’Yquem’s horse stables, transformed in the 19th century into a 110-meter long cellar, the longest in the appellation.

The estate has 38.5 hectares under vines which is primarily planted with Semillon and smaller amounts of Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle. The vines' deep roots extract elements from a limestone and clay-based soil, giving the grapes freshness, richness and strength. For this reason the wine carries the name "Coutet,” derived from the Gascon word for knife, to signify the fresh, lively and crisp palate that is the estate's signature style.

In 1787, former U.S. President Thomas Jefferson, then ambassador to France, celebrated Chateau Coutet as the best Sauternes from Barsac. In 1855, the estate was classified as a First Growth and recognized for its continued excellence. Today, as the oldest and largest Barsac estate, Chateau Coutet stays true to its tradition of distinction and quality. The finest Barsac-Sauternes is produced annually under the direction and management of the Baly family as well as the technical and commercial collaboration of the Baron Philippe de Rothschild S.A. company.

In its youth, Chateau Coutet displays generous notes of white flowers, citrus fruits, honey and vanilla. Ginger and pineapple are very typical aromas in a young release. Time brings out deeper, warmer notes in which spices combine with exotic nectars and candied fruits, such as gingerbread mingled with marmalade. Age also enhances the harmony of its roasted botrytis character and its distinct aromas to give Chateau Coutet a delicate and unique bouquet that is unsurpassed.

The 2020 Chateau Coutet is a captivating white wine that hails from the esteemed Bordeaux region in France. This Sauternes Blend showcases the finesse and elegance that Chateau Coutet is renowned for, making it a true gem in the world of white wines.

In the glass, the wine displays a pale lemon-gold color that shimmers with brilliance. The aromatics are intense and alluring, revealing enticing notes of dried honey, saffron, dandelion, and light crushed stone. These aromas create a beautifully focused and fairly complex bouquet that is quintessential Coutet.

On the palate, the 2020 Coutet impresses with its impeccable balance and refreshing acidity. While not as powerful as some of its counterparts, such as Doisy-Daëne, it boasts admirable tension and finesse. The ginger-tinged finish lingers on the tongue, leaving a lasting impression of sophistication.

Renowned wine critic Neal Martin, from Vinous, awards this wine an impressive score of 93 points, describing it as "very fine." He praises its intense bouquet and well-balanced palate, highlighting its admirable tension.

James Suckling, another respected critic, rates this wine with 92 points, noting its sweet yet fresh character. He describes flavors of pineapple, mangoes, honeysuckle, and yellow flowers, with a bright finish that invites immediate enjoyment.

Wine Enthusiast gives this wine a lofty score of 97 points, describing it as an elegant wine with aristocratic poise and restraint. The reviewer commends the wine's richness, noting that while the botrytis is dominant, the dry core maintains a push of density.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also heaps praise on the 2020 Coutet, awarding it 96 points. The reviewer is enamored by the wine's ethereal intensity, amazing poise, and seamless acidity, predicting that it has the potential to surpass its showier sibling, the 2019 vintage.

Decanter rates this wine with 95 points, highlighting its signature Coutet nose with burnt orange, caramelized peaches, and floral flecks. The reviewer commends its lovely weight, deep yet juicy palate, and concentrated layers of sweetness, acidity, and richness.

Wine Spectator awards this wine a score of 91 points, describing it as a flattering, plump sweetie. The reviewer notes flavors of baked apple, pineapple chutney, ginger, and toasted almond, with a long aging potential.

Jane Anson, a renowned wine critic, awards this wine 94 points, praising its concentration and lusciously sweet texture. She notes flavors of burnt toffee, mango, and caramelized ginger, lifted by citrus, white flower, and pink grapefruit notes.

Antonio Galloni, from Vinous, rates this wine with 94 points, highlighting its refinement and lightness on the palate. He commends the wine's notes of tangerine peel, mint, passionfruit, and white flowers, describing it as wonderfully refined.

Jeff Leve, from TheWineCellarInsider.com, gives this wine 94 points, noting its attention-seeking nose filled with honeysuckle, candied pineapple, and apricots. He praises its perfect balance between sweetness and vibrancy, with ample freshness to provide lift and cut to the honeyed, tropical fruits.

Overall, the 2020 Chateau Coutet is a white wine of exceptional quality and sophistication. Its impressive scores from esteemed critics and its refined character make it a standout choice for wine enthusiasts seeking a truly remarkable experience.