2008 Lamothe Guignard

Tasted single blind against its peers. The Lamothe Guignard 2008 has a light, citrus lemon, quince and apricot-scented bouquet that is missing the same level of cohesion and intensity compared to a year ago. The palate is better than the nose suggests, with good weight, an attractive waxy texture and spicy, lanolin-tinged fruit. The finish has a nice fatness and decent length and should age extremely well. Tasted January 2012.

Medium gold. Sexy, discreet aromas of fresh apricot, mirabelle and spices, plus a whiff of red berries. Silky on entry, then moderately deep and supple, with an attractive bitter edge to its fresh apricot and honey flavors. This midweight Sauternes is not hugely concentrated or particularly thick but finishes with good persistence.

Not much on the nose. Just a hint of citrus, then rather bitter on the palate, like lemon zest. Fresh finish, pure citrus fruit, moderate concentration and quite good length. (JH)