2023 Valandraud Blanc
Buying options
Tasting notes
Based on 53% Sauvignon Gris, 40% Sauvignon Blanc, and the rest Semillon, brought up eight months on lees in 80% new barrels and 20% terracotta amphorae, the 2023 Château Valandraud Blanc has more exotic aromatics of ripe citrus, stone fruits, thyme, and crushed stone. It's beautifully balanced, rich, concentrated, and textured on the palate, with medium to full body, bright acidity, and a great, great finish. There are roughly 483 cases produced. Drink 2026-2040.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
The 2023 Valandraud Blanc has come together beautifully since I tasted it in barrel. Hints of sage, mint and dried herbs open gradually in the glass. More than anything else, I am struck by the wine's structure, which at times is reminiscent of a red wine. I would give the 2023 a year or two in bottle.
The 2023 Valandraud Blanc is aged in 80% new oak and 20% terracotta amphorae for eight months. It has quite a discreet bouquet with lime, lemon thyme and crushed rock aromas. The palate is well balanced with a crisp line of acidity, a little spicier than the Virginie Blanc, a little pithiness coming through toward the finish. Impressive length, this is a quite delicious white.
About the producer
One of the first garage wines, Ch. Valandraud was created by Jean-Luc Thunevin – Saint-Emilion’s “bad boy”. Today the style of the wine is much more restrained, and officially classified as a Premier Grand Cru Classé B estate.