2021 Gruner Veltiner 'Der Ott', Bernhard Ott
As a contrast to this morning's release of 2020 Château d'Yquem, we here offer you 2022 'Le G de Guiraud' Bordeaux Blanc Sec, the first of many 2022 vintage wines we will taste over the coming weeks!
At just £140 per dozen bottles in bond, this dry white has the finesse and elegance you would expect of a wine made at one of the most illustrious Premier Cru Classé Sauternes estates, Château Guiraud.
'Le G' also happens to be made by Sandrine Garbay, who until May 2022 was Cellar Master at Yquem, where she made 27 vintages. Based on our tasting of the wine, Sandrine is taking this dry white in a new direction, emphasising elegance and finesse and reducing the influence of oak.
2022 saw above-average temperatures, but also a drought from April to October. Harvest began on 18 August, the earliest date in the history of the estate, until 7 September, under perfect conditions.
Harvested by hand, the grapes were fermented in Château Guiraud barrels (50%) and stainless steel vats (50%). A selective malolactic fermentation was carried out only on certain batches (5%) for 10 days, resulting in a leaner, racier style. The wine was aged on its lees for 6 month in barrels, with lees stirring. The final blend was 53% Sauvignon Blanc and 47% Sémillon.
The 2022 will be drinking on landing, but Sémillon is famous for its ageing ability and the wine will also develop for many years (we suggest enjoying it from 2024). At just £16.68 per bottle on your table (at current duty rates) 2022 'Le G' is rightly often described as the best value white wine in Bordeaux.
Offered ex-château, expected autumn 2023.
