At a glance

Producer

Château Coutet

Region

Barsac, Sauternes, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadelle

Wine type

Sweet

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Sweet

Typical price

$45-$65

Tasting profile

Honeyed apricot, citrus zest, tropical fruits, orange blossom, botrytis notes

Evolution: Will gain more complex fig, gingerbread, and toasted almond aromas with age

At peak: Rich and layered with balanced sweetness and vibrant mineral acidity

Structure

Acidity

High acidity providing freshness and aging ability

Tannins

Low tannins typical of Sauternes sweet white wines

Alcohol

13-14%

Aging potential

20-30+ years due to sugar-acid balance and noble rot character

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2054

Optimal window

2022 to 2057

Current status

Drinking well, approaching early maturity

Current condition

Balanced with vibrant acidity and developing complexity

The vintage quality of 2015 was excellent in Barsac with ripe botrytized grapes offering ideal concentration and balance, enabling extended aging well beyond typical sweet wines. The acidity preserves freshness while sugars and botrytis character deepen over 20-30 years.

Food pairing

Foie gras, blue cheese, fruit desserts, Asian spicy cuisine

Serving

Serving temperature

10-12°C (50-54°F)

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Château Coutet practices cover cover cropping, careful water management, minimal chemical use, and commitment to maintaining vineyard ecosystem health

While not certified organic or biodynamic, Château Coutet employs sustainable farming practices and environmentally conscientious winery operations consistent with many Bordeaux estates. The carbon footprint is moderate considering global export but offset partially by efficient production and packaging.