Chateau Delmond Sauternes / 2022 / 75cl

Château Delmond is the second Sauternes label from Jean-Christophe Barbe, a professor of oenology at Bordeaux University who specialises in noble rot. He owns the award-winning Sauternes estate Château Laville. Château Delmond is named after Jean-Christophe’s grandfather Delmond, who originally bought the property.

In contrast to Château Laville, Château Delmond is unoaked and sourced from younger vines planted in cooler parts of the vineyard. The final wine is made with the same level of care and attention afforded to its famous sister estate, with several passes made through the vineyards at harvest to select perfect botrytised berries.

“At least 80% of the blend is made from botrytis-affected grapes,” says Jean-Christophe. Château Delmond comprises a blend of predominantly Semillon with a small percentage of Sauvignon Blanc, aged in stainless steel tanks for 18 months before bottling.

This Sauternes is pale gold in colour with aromas of apricot, peach, honey and floral nuances. It is medium to full bodied on the palate with a creamy texture and a refreshing acidity which perfectly balances the sweetness.