Sauternes (1997)

About this wine

The 1997 Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey offers a rich bouquet of honey, lanolin, beeswax, and undergrowth, creating an open and vibrant aroma. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with a viscous entry, delivering flavors of bitter orange and marmalade that lead to an animated finish. This wine is produced from a blend of Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle grapes, which are affected by noble rot, concentrating their sugars and flavors. The vineyard's unique terroir, featuring silica-gravel and gravelly clay soils, contributes to the wine's complexity. As it ages, the wine develops deeper hues and more intricate flavors, making it a remarkable example of Sauternes from this vintage.

About the grape

Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle are the key grape varieties used in crafting Sauternes wines like the 1997 Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey. Sémillon, making up the majority of the blend, is particularly susceptible to noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), which concentrates the sugars and flavors in the grapes, resulting in the rich, sweet profile characteristic of Sauternes. Sauvignon Blanc contributes acidity and fresh, citrusy notes, balancing the sweetness and adding complexity. Muscadelle, though used in smaller quantities, imparts delicate floral aromas, enhancing the wine's aromatic profile. The unique climate of the Sauternes region, with its misty mornings and sunny afternoons, creates ideal conditions for noble rot to develop, making these wines truly distinctive.

Quick facts

• 🏰 Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey, established in the 13th century, is one of the oldest estates in Sauternes, France.
• 🍷 The 1997 vintage of Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey is a Premier Cru Classé Sauternes, recognized for its exceptional quality.
• 🍇 This wine is crafted from a blend of 93% Sémillon, 6% Sauvignon Blanc, and 1% Muscadelle grapes.
• 🌱 The estate's vineyards are situated on silica-gravel and clay-gravel soils, contributing to the wine's unique character.
• 💰 The 1997 vintage is noted for its lush and balanced profile, with an average price of $63 per 750ml bottle.

Palate profile

Producer

Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey, located in Bommes, France, traces its origins to the 13th century, with its first documented owner, Lord Raymond Peyraguey, establishing vineyards in 1618. The estate gained prominence under Pierre Lafaurie, who acquired it in 1796 and elevated its reputation, leading to its classification as a Premier Cru Classé in 1855. In 2014, Swiss entrepreneur Silvio Denz, owner of the Lalique crystal company, purchased the château, integrating art and wine by incorporating Lalique designs throughout the estate. Celebrating its 400th anniversary in 2018, the château opened a luxury hotel and a Michelin-starred restaurant, further enhancing its status as a destination for wine and art enthusiasts.