2016 Château Coutet
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Tasting notes
The 2016 Coutet has a more backward nose: dried honey, almond, marmalade coming through with time, just a light lanolin aroma. The palate is well balanced, with a viscous opening. Fine depth, the acidity well judged, although it just needs a little more complexity and personality towards the finish. What you might call a "solid" Sauternes. Tasted blind at the Southwold 10-Year-On tasting.
Critic scores
James Suckling
Wine Spectator
More reviews and scores
The 2016 Coutet is a vintage that I am ambivalent towards. It feels a little strict and lean on the nose, missing the presence and concentration of the previous vintage. The palate is well balanced with quince and tangerine, with moderate depth, yet it needs more acidity and bite on the finish. Tasted from an ex-château bottle served at the estate.
The 2016 Coutet has a high-toned bouquet of honey, clementine and light waxy aromas that overall is missing some complexity. The palate is well balanced with a viscous opening and notes of marmalade, quince and ginger. This is quite linear in style and does not really fan out on the finish, but I appreciate the harmony and length. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.
Tasted blind. Lively and diffuse. Just a bit sweet and a bit sickly. Pruney. (JR)
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.