Mission Codename Botrytis Your Highness
Simple question – while seeking a sweet elixir from the realm of Bordeaux that will knock your socks off, would you rather spend $200 or $20? Well, duh! What if we told you that we discovered a Château d’Yquem replica from just a few miles away in a hidden enclave called Monbazillac? A 2011 nonetheless? According to the Wine Spectator, there were only 3 sweet Bordeaux vintages that are rated equally high in the last 30 years: 1990, 2001 and 2011. These wines were described as “racy, detailed, pure and driven” wines of ethereal nectar, thanks to Botrytis, the magical ‘noble rot’ that is accountable for the world’s greatest sweet wines. It’s a privilege to bring you a rarity of this caliber, with superb collectability and age-worthiness, at almost HALF OFF its release price.
Put any gold jewelry up next to a glass of this and it will fade in comparison, it’s that deep a shade of glimmering gold. The nose is a head-spinning sensory overload of dried apricots, toasty hazelnut brittle, and a touch of nutmeg spice. Unctuous on the palate, with candied lemon, ginger, orange rind, and caramel. It remains sweet but restrained, never cloying for even a second, while uplifted with infinite complexity on the impeccably balanced finish. Beyond the usual suspects (classic pairings include foie gras, blue cheeses, and many desserts) this is irresistible for pre- or post-dinner simply on its own.
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate was the first to spot these gems out; “Grande Maison in Monbazillac is crafting nobly sweet wine that can compete with the best of Sauternes. More attention needs to be paid to this appellation – but of course more consumers need to be indoctrinated into the mysteries, versatility, and seductive pleasures of these and similar ‘slow wines’.”
Experience the golden wine of kings and queens while as affordable as artisanal bread! This Demeter certified biodynamically farmed vineyard is that best kept secret LVMH, the wealthiest luxury goods conglomerate in the world who owns Yquem, hopes will remain so! A dual Gold Medal winner from two highly discerning French competitions, exclusively at The Wine Spies and today only.
Here’s what the wine press says:
Gold Medal – Bordeaux Wine Awards
Gold Medal – Hachette Wine Guide
What the Winery Says
2011 'Cuvée du Château' Monbazillac AOC 375ml
- Winemaker
- Benjamin Chabrol
- Varietals
- 60% Semillion, 20% Sauvignon Blanc, 20% Muscadelle
- Vintage
- 2011
- Appellation
- Monbazillac AOC, Southwest France
- Abv
- 12.5%
- Aging
- 30 months in new French oak