1983 Coutet (Unsaleable)
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Tasting notes
The 1983 Coutet contains one of the highest levels of residual sugar at 168g/L, which Dominique Baly was apparently not happy with at the time. It has a straightforward bouquet with light honeyed notes, sunflower seeds and a touch of orange blossom. The palate is nicely balanced with fine acidity, not complex and with a touch of bitterness towards the attenuated finish. This should be better, given the growing season; I suspect it has faded in recent years. Tasted from an ex-château bottle served at the estate.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Clear greenish amber colour. Toasty nose and so fresh on the palate. Super-clean and long, and so much better than the half-bottle I tasted in April 2019. Wonderful green-flavoured undertow. Refreshing – and not simple! (JR)
Half-bottle. Bright gold. Fresh, crisp, a little simple but sweet and clean. (JR)
Not the biggest, most concentrated, or most luscious Coutet, this wine gets high marks because of undeniable elegance, breed, class, and a fresh, lively feel on the palate. The flavors reveal excellent ripeness, and the wine's refreshing crispness makes this an exceptionally enjoyable, non-cloying Barsac. Anticipated maturity: Now-2005. Last tasted, 3/89.
About the producer
Classified as a First Growth in 1855, this Barsac property has a history stretching back to the 14th century. Today it has 38.5 hectares of vineyard, producing brilliant sweet wines cut by taut acidity. In certain years, it produces Cuvée Madame, pure botrytised Semillon from its oldest vines.