1999 de Fargues
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The de Fargues 1999 is described by the estate as a classic vintage that adheres to the adage “Aout fait le mout.” Two-thirds of the crop was picked in September after 8 days of rain propagated widespread noble rot. There is slightly lower residual sugar at 122-grams-per-liter. It has a more conservative, straight-laced bouquet compared to more recent vintages, revealing touches of ginger, dried honey, mandarin and a dab of alcohol. The palate is medium-bodied with a confident, viscous opening and a keen thread of acidity. Notes of mandarin, lemon peel, honeycomb and Indian spices inform the middle and finish that retains a sense of composure and linearity that suits it well. This is a very fine Sauternes for the vintage. Tasted April 2013.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The de Fargues 1999 is described by the estate as a classic vintage that adheres to the adage “Aout fait le mout.” Two-thirds of the crop was picked in September after 8 days of rain propagated widespread noble rot. There is slightly lower residual sugar at 122-grams-per-liter. It has a more conservative, straight-laced bouquet compared to more recent vintages, revealing touches of ginger, dried honey, mandarin and a dab of alcohol. The palate is medium-bodied with a confident, viscous opening and a keen thread of acidity. Notes of mandarin, lemon peel, honeycomb and Indian spices inform the middle and finish that retains a sense of composure and linearity that suits it well. This is a very fine Sauternes for the vintage. Tasted April 2013. Jun 2013, www.robertparker.com
About the producer
Owned by the Lur-Saluces family (which also previously owned Ch. d’Yquem) since 1472, Ch. de Fargues benefited from similar care and attention. The resulting wines are impressive and – unlike most in the region which are now offered en primeur – only released three years after the vintage.