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This sweet wine from Sauternes is wonderfully balanced and fresh and has really started to shine from 2021 (Half bottle)
True to their pioneering spirit, Chateau Guiraud, it became the first 1st Grand Cru Classé in 1855 to receive Organic Agriculture certification in 2011. Château Guiraud has given its preference to the two main grape varieties: Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc. The original and unique grape variety is a renowned diptych that invents the character of each wine aged on the property. Château Guiraud is a rebellious, passionate and free property, which had to conquer its freedom to create the first wine that speaks of nature.
A fine structure with a botrytis core
Chateau Guiraud 2010 presents intense aromas, hawthorn flowers, fresh fruit, with a minty note which characterizes the vintage. The feeling in mouth is magnificent, soft, but robust. The tonic feeling of the botrytis is amplified by a great freshness. Mouth aromas strengthens up the nose: the botrytis now shows them crystallized, of great precision and purity. The aftertaste is long. The sugar power never gives heaviness: It is the magic of natural sugars sublimated by botrytis
Classically, Sauternes pair well with stone fruit desserts like peach pie, poached fruits, mousse, Crème brûlée and custards. It's also a perfect pairing with salty, savoury foods such as blue cheeses (namely stilton) and fois gras as well as other fatty, rich organ meats. Some of the more daring believe that Sauternes are a sublime pairing with oysters too - give this a go - you might be truly impressed at the pairing.
Since sweet wines can be a tad complicated, it is also important to note what Sauternes does not pair well with. Any dessert that is sweeter than the wine would make the wine taste sour or bland. Any delicate dishes such as fish would be well overpowered by this wine.
Whilst already drinking wonderfully, Chateau Guiraud 2010 will continue to improve. As it typical with Sauternes, they have a super-long shelf life and will continue to develop and gain complexity for years to come. Drink between 2018 - 2040
96/100 James Suckling
95/100 Decanter Magazine
95/100 Wine Enthusiast
93/100 Robert Parker
