1997 Château Coutet***

Half-bottle. Marmalade, ginger, acacia, honeysuckle – plus the dried fruit of maturity. Feels like it might be on the less sugary side for Sauternes – or maybe that's the age? Either way, the balance is spot on. (RH)

Lively coppery gold. Very arresting characterful whistle-clean nose. Very pure, youthful, exuberant fruit. Very young but already exhibiting great layers of interest. A very successful wine. (JR)

A classic example of elegance allied to richness and intensity, Coutet's 1997 exhibits an expressive, floral, citrusy, honeyed nose, with notes of orange, Chinese black tea, pineapple, and spicy oak. It is all finesse, with honey, medium to full body, gorgeous delineation, and refreshing underlying acidity. It should drink well young. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2020. (No tasting note was provided in Issue 128. We have instead included the text of the tasting note from Issue 122)