1997 Coutet Cuvee Madame
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Tasting notes
The 1997 Coutet Cuvée Madame is a vintage that I have tasted a couple of time before. This has a more Aszu-like bouquet that has become more resinous in recent years. This is not flamboyant like the 2003, more linear and perhaps more noble. The palate is beautifully balanced with real Barsac character, very mineral driven underneath those layers of botrytised fruit with tangy marmalade and quince towards the persistent finish. This is one of the most intellectual Cuvée Madam vintages that I have tasted in recent years. Magnificent. (156gm/L residual sugar, 3.8gm/L total acidity, 13.5% alcohol).
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Neal Martin
Neal Martin
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The Château Coutet 1997 Cuvée Madame, which was picked on October 14 according to Aline Baly, has a more resinous bouquet compared to the 1995, touches of adhesive infusing the dried honey, shaved almond and quince scents, touches of tropical fruit coming through allied with more mineralité than the 1995 Cuvée Madame. The palate is medium-bodied with sumptuous, rounded, honeyed fruit interlaced with gingerbread and frangipane, gently rolling to a beautifully defined and intense finish. This lingers tantalizingly in the mouth with real edginess and tension. Just as good as it was several years ago.
The Chateau Coutet 1997 Cuvee Madame, which was picked on October 14 according to Aline Baly, has a more resinous bouquet compared to the 1995, touches of adhesive infusing the dried honey, shaved almond and quince scents, touches of tropical fruit coming through allied with more mineralite than the 1995 Cuvee Madame. The palate is medium-bodied with sumptuous, rounded, honeyed fruit interlaced with gingerbread and frangipane, gently rolling to a beautifully defined and intense finish. This lingers tantalizingly in the mouth with real edginess and tension. Just as good as it was several years ago. Aug 2015, www.robertparker.com
About the producer
Classified as a First Growth in 1855, this Barsac property has a history stretching back to the 14th century. Today it has 38.5 hectares of vineyard, producing brilliant sweet wines cut by taut acidity. In certain years, it produces Cuvée Madame, pure botrytised Semillon from its oldest vines.