2005 d'Arche

Tasted blind at the 10-Year On Tasting in Sauternes. The 2005 Château d’Arche has a perfumed lemon curd and quince-scented bouquet that is well defined. The palate has a fine citrus-like opening, quite vibrant in the mouth with a satisfying level of botrytis on the finish. My only quibble is that is does not quite deliver the length, but otherwise this is fine.

Attractive savour and lift though one of the skinnier 2005 Sauternes. A little tight on the finish – oak effect? (JR)

Pale yellow-gold color. Peach and apricot aromas carry through onto the dense palate, where they are joined by suave oak and a finishing element of candied citrus peel. Ripe acidity gives the wine a juicy quality in the middle, as well as a firm edge on the finish that calls for some patience.