Located in the commune of Preignac, Chateau Suduiraut is a famed Sauternes house with vineyards which border Château D’Yquem. The This historic property dates back to the 15th century. Sadly only one wing remains from the original chateau which was destroyed by the Duc d`Eperon in the 16th century. The present château was built in the 17th century by the Suduiraut family, who also commissioned a spectacular garden designed by Le Nôtre. Chateau Suduiraut was classified as a 1er Cru Classe in 1855. While some might contend that from 1940-1960 quality decreased, it is clear that the quality has been consistently good since 1992 when Château Suduiraut was purchased by the insurance group AXA which also owns Château Pichon-Longueville in Pauillac and Château Petit-Village in Pomerol.
Château Suduiraut's 90 hectares of vineyards are planted with 80% Sémillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc. The grapes are harvested in several "tries" and are fermented in 50-hectolitre stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged in small barriques (33% new) for 24 months. Suduiraut's winemaker Pierre Montégut has been crafting some exceptional wines for years. I have had the chance to review many of these older wines which are holding on really nicely — wines from 2001, 2003 and 2005 in particular still have a long way to go.I loved the 2005 Chateau Sudiuraut Sauternes (OB, 95) which is tension-filled and still has at least another fifteen years in front of it. Learn more about this famed Château at www.suduiraut.com Here are my tasting notes from a beautiful vertical tasting of Château Suduiraut.
2005 Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes- Showing a slightly lighter color than you might expect, the really good 2005 Chateau Sudiuraut is a brilliant showing from this outstanding vintage in Sauternes. Once on the mouth, this is round and plump, with good viscosity that might remind you of the 2011 vintage. Roasted pineapple, vanilla creme brûlée and shades of apricot and honey all enter the fray, with delightful, mouth-watering acidity. Delicious to consume now, this has at least another ten to fifteen years to go. Drink 2022-2037- 95
2021 Chateau Suduiraut 'Lions du Suduiraut' Blanc Sec- The really good 2021 Chateau Suduiraut 'Lions du Suduiraut' Blanc Sec is a gorgeous effort that is already beautifully evolved after one year in the bottle. Better warmed up a bit, this Bordeaux Blanc reveals bright pear and gooseberry notes with shades of hay and wet stone on the nose. The palate is plush and nicely textured, with good weight and length. While great to savor right now, this has some serious aging potential. Drink 2022-2035- 92