2009 Semillon Sauvignon Muscadette, Cuvee Sophie

The region of Monbazillac is located in the south-west of France, not far from Bordeaux. Grande Maison was an organic pioneer in Monbazillac, farming according to organic and biodynamic principles in the early 1990s. The estate’s 35 acres of vineyards mostly face full south; a small lake (created by an earlier owner) helps to protect against spring frosts, moderate summer temperatures and encourage the development of botrytis, or noble rot, once grapes are ripe.

This is a hedonistic example of what the white wines of Bordeaux can look like - subtly tropical fruit with grassy edges, surrounded by a rich robe of creamy oak. Plenty of power but also acidity - very well balanced and focussed, with the extra years of aging providing complexity and detail.

Bordeaux, France