Château Couhins Blanc 2023 is a Pessac-Léognan dry white from the Graves, and one of the area’s few white wines classified as Grand Cru Classé de Graves. The estate is notable for being owned by INRAE (the French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment) since 1968, and 2023 marks its first certified organic white vintage. Couhins Blanc is also unusual in the appellation for relying entirely on Sauvignon—Sauvignon Blanc with a small portion of Sauvignon Gris, and no Sémillon.

In the glass, critics consistently describe a Sauvignon profile that leans mineral and saline as much as fruity. Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate says it “exhales pure, delicate aromas of herbs, pear, white peach and spring flowers,” finishing “long, mineral and saline” (Yohan Castaing). The Wine Independent similarly highlights “struck flint, lemonade, and lime leaves,” with a “crisp and vibrant” palate and a “slightly reductive (minerally) character” on the finish. James Suckling finds it “restrained on the nose,” moving through “fresh herbs, green apples… guavas and flint,” and calls the wine “linear and bright, with a long, pithy finish.”

The élevage contributes to the texture several reviewers mention. Jane Anson reports “25% new oak… 18% in tank,” and praises it as “less austere than in recent vintages” with “attractive weight through the palate.” Jeff Leve notes “fresh, and juicy” fruit and a “powdery texture in the finish,” suggesting it will be “ready-to-go on release.”

The standout review is Jeb Dunnuck’s emphatic 98 points—an excellent score—calling it “one of the best Sauvignon Blancs in the world,” with “almost Riesling-like minerality,” “bright, racy acidity,” and longevity “for two decades” (drink 2026–2045). Vinous’ Antonio Galloni is a touch more cautious at 91+, citing “plenty of textural depth” and “considerable power,” while noting the aromatics are “a touch muddled” today and may benefit from time.