At a glance

Producer

Clos des Lunes

Region

Bordeaux, France (Sauternes/Sec de Sauternes)

Grape variety

Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc

Wine type

White

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$18-$30 USD (depending on region)

Tasting profile

Dried apricot, baked apple, honeyed citrus, subtle toasted almond, mild stone fruit, faded mineral character. Mouthfeel is round, soft, and elegant but with diminished vivacity.

Evolution: Transitioned from fresh, lively citrus and floral in youth to richer, more oxidative honeyed and nutty notes with advanced age.

At peak: Was at its peak 2016-2019, with pronounced fruit and a harmonious, creamy palate. Now more tertiary and soft.

Structure

Acidity

Medium, likely evolved towards lower with age

Tannins

None (white wine)

Alcohol

13%-13.5% ABV

Aging potential

Approx. 6-8 years in good cellaring conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2020 to 2037

Optimal window

2017 to 2040

Current status

Ready to drink

Current condition

Approaching late maturity; best enjoyed soon, though some bottles in solid condition

Lune d'Argent (Sémillon/Sauvignon blend) builds complexity quickly due to its varietal makeup and low-to-moderate new oak regime. Though well crafted for early to mid-term consumption, most bottles have now crested peak maturity and are beginning a slow decline.

Food pairing

Sole meunière, roast chicken, mild soft cheeses, shellfish, risotto with lemon, classic white Bordeaux pairings.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Manual harvesting to reduce environmental impact of machinery, grass cover between vine rows to limit erosion, reduced chemical inputs. Some focus on biodiversity and eco-friendly vineyard practices, but not fully organic or biodynamic by certification. Glass bottles, standard packaging for Bordeaux whites.

Clos des Lunes is recognized for quality-minded vineyard management and environmentally conscious practices but does not hold organic, biodynamic, or HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale) status as of the 2012 vintage. The estate employs many sustainable viticulture techniques and minimizes chemical usage, striving for a balance of high-quality production and ecosystem respect. Since this vintage, they have advanced sustainability practices, but in 2012 the implementation was limited and not certified. Packaging is typical for the region and does not feature lightweight or reduced-carbon glass. Overall, the wine is above average for sustainability compared to generic Bordeaux estates, but lags behind certified organic/biodynamic peers.